Cancer has become a looming public health crisis in India. The latest data from Apollo Hospitals' Health of the Nation Report 2024 paints a worrying picture of the increasing cancer burden across the country.
The numbers are staggering - India is projected to see a 13% increase in cancer cases from 2020 to 2025, making it the new "cancer capital" of the world. What's even more alarming is that cancers are striking Indians at a much younger age compared to Western populations.
The median age of diagnosis for breast cancer in Indian women is 52 years, versus 63 years in the US and Europe. For cervical cancer, it's 54 years in India versus 60 in the West. This trend of early cancer onset is being seen across most major cancer types like lung, breast, cervical and colorectal cancers.
Part of the reason for these disturbing trends could be lack of awareness and inadequate screening. Cancer
screening rates in India are abysmally low at under 2% for breast cancer and under 1% for lung cancer. In contrast, screening plays a vital role in early detection and treatment abroad.
Another potential factor is genetics - studies suggest that factors like normal prostate cancer marker (PSA) levels may need to be redefined for Indian population based on their unique genetic makeup.
Whatever the reasons, one thing is clear - India is headed towards a cancer crisis if urgent action is not taken. Increasing cancer screening, promoting awareness on symptoms, and encouraging healthy lifestyles should become top priorities.
But most importantly, prevention is key. Many cancers can be avoided by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and getting vaccinated against viral cancers like cervical and liver cancer. Small lifestyle changes today can go a long way in cutting future cancer risk.
The time to act is now. As individuals, families and communities, we must come together to fight this "silent epidemic" through prevention and early detection. Only then can we ensure a cancer-free, healthier future for India. The solutions are in our hands - let's get started before it's too late.
Comments