In 2020, nearly 1.4 million people in India were diagnosed with cancer. By 2025, this figure is projected to rise to 1.57 million, according to the latest Health of the Nation 2024 report by Apollo Hospitals.
Over the past two decades, there has been a noticeable increase in non-communicable diseases, making them the leading cause of death in the country. The report highlights cancer as a major concern, potentially positioning India as the 'cancer capital' of the world.
The report notes the gender-specific prevalence of cancers in India, with breast, cervix, and ovarian cancer being most common among women, while lung, mouth, and prostate cancer are predominant among men.
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Recent data indicates that nearly 98 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer at an early stage achieve a more favourable five-year survival rate, emphasising the importance of early screening and vigilant monitoring.
The statistics reveal concerning trends: one-third of Indians are pre-diabetic, two-thirds are pre-hypertensive, and one in ten struggles with depression.
These chronic conditions, along with cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues, are reaching alarming levels and significantly affecting public health.
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Compared to other countries, cancer diagnoses in India occur at a younger age, with an average age of 52 for breast cancer, 54 for lung cancer, and 59 for prostate cancer, as opposed to the 60s and 70s in the US, UK, and China.
The report identifies inadequate screening rates as a significant obstacle in India's fight against cancer, emphasising the urgent need for proactive measures in preventive healthcare.
The high incidence of cancer in India is attributed to a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and socioeconomic factors.
Widespread tobacco use, both smoking and smokeless forms, significantly increases the risk of lung, oral, and throat cancers. Additionally, air pollution from vehicles and industries exposes a large portion of the population to carcinogenic substances, further elevating the risk of various cancers.
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