Cancer cases are rising at an alarming rate worldwide, and the number of deaths due to the disease is equally concerning. A recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed that in India, three out of five cancer-diagnosed patients succumb to the disease.
The situation is worse for women compared to men. According to a report published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia journal, the mortality rate in the United States is about one in four, whereas in China, it is one in two.
This ICMR study is based on an analysis of GLOBOCAN 2022 data, an online database that provides cancer statistics for 185 countries. The study found that after China and the United States, India ranks third in cancer incidence globally. Additionally, India accounts for over 10% of global cancer-related deaths, ranking second after China. Researchers have also predicted that in the next two decades, India will face a significant challenge in managing cancer-related deaths, as cases are expected to rise by 2% annually due to an aging population.
Cancer Cases and Deaths Expected to Rise in the Future
Scientists have warned that cancer cases and mortality rates will continue to increase in the coming years. Between 2022 and 2050, the mortality rate is projected to rise from 64.7 to 109.6 per 100,000 people. Considering the alarming surge in cases and deaths, the Government of India has announced a plan in the Union Budget 2025-26 to establish daycare cancer centers in all 759 districts. These centers will provide essential cancer treatment services such as chemotherapy, biopsy facilities, and necessary medications.
Higher Cancer Prevalence Among Women
Researchers analyzed data from the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN 2022) and Global Health Observatory (GHO) to examine 36 types of cancer in different age and gender groups over the past 20 years in India. The study revealed that the five most common cancers affecting both men and women collectively account for 44% of all cancer cases.
Among women, breast cancer is the most prevalent, accounting for 30% of all new cases, followed by cervical cancer, which accounts for around 19%. In men, oral cancer is the most common, with 16% of new cases attributed to it.
The study also found a variation in cancer prevalence across different age groups. The highest incidence was observed in the elderly (70 years and above), while the 15-49 age group had the second-highest number of cases. 20% of cancer-related deaths were reported in this age group alone.
This research is considered the first comprehensive assessment of the present and future cancer landscape in India, focusing on different age groups and gender disparities.
