Home / Health / Childhood Cancer: India's Silent Crisis
Childhood Cancer: India's Silent Crisis
3 Apr
Summary
- Cancer is the 10th leading cause of death for children in India.
- Globally, 1.44 lakh children died from cancer in 2023.
- Most childhood cancer deaths in low-income countries are preventable.
A recent study reveals that cancer is the 10th leading cause of death among children in India. Globally, childhood cancer is the eighth leading cause of death for children, with outcomes heavily influenced by available resources. In 2023, the world saw 3.77 lakh new childhood cancer cases and 1.44 lakh deaths.
Children in low- and middle-income nations bear the brunt, accounting for 85% of new cases and 94% of deaths. South Asia alone contributes 20.5% to global deaths. Experts emphasize that most of these deaths are preventable, stressing the need for childhood cancer inclusion in national health plans.
Urgent action is required, including early diagnosis, access to treatment, and strong supportive care. Robust cancer registries are crucial for effective policy planning and improving outcomes for children worldwide.
