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Cancer Surge: India Sees Alarming Rise in Cases
4 Feb
Summary
- Global cancer cases estimated at 20 million with 9.7 million deaths in 2022.
- India reported over 15 lakh cancer cases in 2024, a rise from 13.5 lakh in 2019.
- Early detection through screening and lifestyle changes are crucial for prevention.
World Cancer Day, observed on February 4, underscores the escalating global cancer burden. In 2022, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recorded approximately 20 million new cases and 9.7 million cancer-related deaths worldwide. India is experiencing a particularly acute increase in cancer incidence.
India reported over 15 lakh cancer cases in 2024, a notable rise from 13.5 lakh cases diagnosed in 2019. This trend continued with 14.2 lakh cases in 2020, increasing to 14.6 lakh in 2022. Early detection remains a critical strategy, yet screening for common cancers like breast, cervical, and oral cancers is underutilized due to fear, stigma, and lack of awareness.
Lifestyle modifications, including tobacco cessation, reduced alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise, can significantly lower cancer risk. The 2026 World Cancer Day theme, "United by Unique," focuses on individual cancer journeys while uniting people towards better care and outcomes. This theme advocates for health systems that are responsive to unique patient needs.
Dr. Vaishali Zamre highlights the importance of screening tests such as mammography for early breast cancer detection, which is often asymptomatic. Other vital screenings include colonoscopy for colorectal cancer, Pap smear with HPV testing for cervical cancer, and skin exams for melanoma. These tests enable faster diagnosis, leading to more effective treatment and improved survival rates.
