Cancer Costs Soar: 15 Lakh Cases in India, Affordability Crisis Looms

In 2024, India recorded 15.33 lakh new cancer cases, a figure projected to increase by 67% by 2045 due to lifestyle changes and an aging population. While advanced medical treatments exist, their financial burden prevents many from accessing care. A study revealed patients incur average annual out-of-pocket expenses of ₹3 lakh, with diagnostics and medicines forming the largest costs. This financial strain often leads to treatment delays or abandonment.

Government initiatives, including customs duty exemptions on certain cancer drugs introduced in the 2026 Union Budget, aim to reduce costs. However, expensive targeted therapies still run into several lakhs annually. State-led models, like Kerala's zero-profit drug outlets, have shown success in making oncology medicines more affordable, offering discounts over 90 percent.

Insurance schemes like PM-JAY have improved coverage, but uneven penetration means many families still face significant out-of-pocket expenses. Experts advocate for stronger policies to lower drug prices, broaden insurance access, and increase domestic production, asserting that cancer cures should be a universal right, not an unaffordable privilege.