In the wake of the escalating global cancer crisis, India finds itself grappling with a significant rise in cancer cases, painting a grim picture of the healthcare landscape. According to recent data, cancer claimed the lives of approximately 9.6 to 10 million people worldwide in 2023, averaging a staggering 26,300 deaths daily.

Within India, the situation is equally distressing, with an estimated one in every nine individuals at risk of developing cancer at some point in their lives. The state of Uttar Pradesh, located in northern India, reported the highest number of new cancer cases in 2023, recording around 2.10 lakh cases. Maharashtra followed closely with approximately 1.21 lakh new cases, and West Bengal secured the thirdhighest position with an estimated 1.13 lakh new cancer cases.

Dr Suman Mallik, clinical director, HOD radiation oncology, Narayana Hospital Howrah, said, “The rise in cancer cases is a matter of great concern, emphasizing the need for early detection, preventive measures, and improved access to quality healthcare. In Bengal and Kolkata, the surge in lung cancer cases is alarming, while head and neck cancer cases are on the decline. Gastrointestinal cancers are on the rise, possibly linked to lifestyle changes, inactivity, and the consumption of highcalorie foods.

Notably, breast cancer has become the most frequent malignancy among females in the state.” The urgency is underscored by alarming statistics, particularly the surge in breast cancer cases among women. The disconcerting reality is that 75-80 per cent of cancer patients seek diagnosis and treatment only at advanced stages, with a meager 29 per cent detection rate nationwide. According to a 2023 study, 85 per cent of breast, lung, and cervical cancers remain undetected in Stage 1, therefore experts emphasize early detection in preventing avoidable deaths.

Dr Gautam Mukhopadhyay, clinical lead, surgical oncology, Narayana Hospital RN Tagore Hospital, Mukundapur said, “The available screening methods are not adequately utilized by the population. Efforts should be made to understand the gaps in service delivery and utilization, shedding light on people’s attitudes towards screening practices. The remedy lies in increasing awareness and harnessing clinical breakthroughs, exemplified by advanced treatments.” In response to alarming cancer trends, hospitals call for concerted efforts in raising awareness, proactive practices, promoting early detection, and ensuring that screening resources are accessible to all.

As the numbers project a 12.8 per cent rise in annual cancer cases by 2025, urgent action is required to curb the increasing burden on the healthcare system. Dr Atul Raut, radiation oncologist, Desun Hospitals, said, “The alarming surge in cancer cases, especially the rise in breast cancer among women and head and neck cancer among men demands urgent attention. Our focus must be on improving the dismal detection rates and ensuring that individuals are diagnosed and treated at earlier stages.”