Recent analysis of cancer data reveals that Delhi leads among many cities in cancer incidence in men, highlighting an urgent healthcare challenge demanding instant action.
The data:
A journal published in the JAMA network a nationwide report based on 43 population-based cancer registries, provides a comprehensive overview of the cancer incidence and mortality rate across India between 2015-2019. These registries were presented under the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR), Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), and Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry Programme, represent nearly 18% of the Indian population.
Methodology
They used a very systematic and continuous data collection approach from diagnostic labs, hospitals to vital hospital records, following international standards. All the data was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of NCDIR and adhered to STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology) guidelines for observational studies.
Key findings
Total cancer cases reported in India- 708,223 new cases
- 206,457 cancer-related deaths
Lifetime risk of cancer in India- 11% total
- Highest rates: Mizoram-21.1% for males and 18.9% for females.
Most commonly occurring cancer- Males: Lung, oral and prostate
- Females: Breast, cervical and ovarian
Among the metro cities, Delhi is at the top of the leaderboard with the highest number of overall cases 146 per 100,000, this is a concerning trend and it reflects the growing cancer burden in the capital of India.
Why is Delhi seeing high cancer rates
Air pollution: Delhi's severe air quality index can be one of the major issues contributing to the spread of cancer among both men and women.
Sedentary lifestyle: This can increase the risk of cancer ten folds, including prostate and colorectal cancer
Tobacco use: High consumption of tobacco correlates with the rising oral cancer cases in Delhi.
Notable trends across India
- Oral cancer trends are increasing in 14 registries among males and 4 among females.
- Ahmedabad saw a striking rise in 4.7% men and 6.9% women.
- Assam and Thiruvananthapuram taluk (Kerala) showed a rapid annual growth in cancer incidence.
What should be done to undermine the authority of in India, especially in Delhi- Stronger public health campaigns against tobacco and alcohol use
- lifestyle education about diet, exercise and stress management
- Access to affordable treatment, especially in rural and urban areas
- Early screening campaigns or programs for high-risk cancer such as lung, oral and breast.
This is not just a story about rising cancer cases, it is a call to action that with time, strengthening of cancer awareness programs is required. With the right strategies, early detection and widespread education, India can move forward reducing its cancer burden and improving survival outcomes for millions of those who suffer.