Delhi Cancer Deaths Surge: Young Victims Alarming

New data from Delhi reveals a stark reality: one in three individuals who died from cancer in the last 20 years were under 44. Over two decades, approximately 1.1 lakh lives were lost to the disease, with a significant portion occurring in hospitals. Cancer deaths have seen a concerning annual rise of about 7%, far exceeding Delhi's population growth rate.

Analysis shows over 41% of fatalities were in the 45-64 age group, with children under 14 and youth aged 15-24 also significantly affected. Health experts highlight that cancer is disproportionately striking during economically productive years, imposing severe consequences on families and the city's workforce.

Men account for a larger share of cancer deaths, primarily due to respiratory and oral cancers. Women are more affected by breast and ovarian cancers, underscoring gaps in routine screening and awareness, especially among younger women. Doctors emphasize the urgent need for early screening, lifestyle interventions, and equitable cancer care distribution.

Contributing factors cited by experts include air pollution, which fuels lung and breast cancers, and the unequal distribution of cancer care. Private facilities are unaffordable for many, while government hospitals are overstretched. These issues, coupled with poor treatment compliance, lead to high mortality rates.