Rising Cancer Burden in India: Cancer cases are steadily increasing in India, with Delhi among the states with the highest number of cases. Let us tell you about the report.

Cancer cases in Delhi

Cancer Cases Are Rising In Delhi: More than 15.33 lakh new cases of cancer will be reported in India in 2024. This number was 14.96 lakh in 2023 and 14.61 lakh in 2022. This means that the cases are continuously increasing every year. The situation is no different in Delhi, as 28,387 patients were found in the year 2024, while 27,561 cases were registered in 2023, and 26,735 cases were registered in 2022. This sharp increase shows the increasing pressure on the hospitals and oncology services of the capital, while the government is claiming to increase the screening and treatment facilities.

Delhi is among the most affected states

Latest data from the ICMR National Cancer Registry Program shows that Uttar Pradesh leads the country with the highest number of cases, at 2.21 lakh. This is followed by Maharashtra (1.27 lakh), West Bengal (1.18 lakh), Bihar (1.15 lakh), and Tamil Nadu (98,386). While Delhi's overall case count is low, it is among the most affected states relative to its population.

Oncologists say lifestyle, pollution, and delayed screening are three major factors driving the rapid increase in cancer in Delhi. Dr Pramod Jain, senior consultant at Fortis Hospital, New Delhi, says that more patients are now arriving at a younger age and in the later stages of the disease. According to him, Delhi's toxic air, stress, poor diet, and low screening are creating a "perfect storm" for cancer.

Cancer cases are increasing due to these things.

Dr Amrita Gupta, a medical oncologist at Sanjivani Hospital in Noida, says that long working hours, low physical activity, increased consumption of processed foods, and tobacco and alcohol are all contributing to the risk. Furthermore, Delhi's air quality further increases the risk of lung cancer. She believes that ignoring early symptoms and delaying doctor visits also contribute to most patients being diagnosed at a late stage. She added, "Small lifestyle changes and timely screening can make a huge difference."

What does the government say?

Responding to the growing cancer burden in Parliament, Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav stated that the government is expanding prevention, screening, and treatment facilities under the NP-NCD program. Currently, 770 district NCD clinics, 6,410 CHC clinics, and 364 district day-care chemotherapy centres are operating across the country. Furthermore, the Center has established 19 State Cancer Institutes, 20 Tertiary Cancer Centers, and oncology units in the new AIIMS. He stated that to reduce the cost of treatment, many cancer drugs are being made available at Jan Aushadhi Centers and AMRIT pharmacies at 50 to 80 percent lower prices. Customs duty and GST have also been reduced on many drugs.

Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor or relevant specialist before undertaking any new activity or exercise.