India’s Cancer Burden Escalates: Urgent Call for Awareness, Policy Action, and Equitable Treatment Access

ICMR study warns that 3 out of 5 cancer patients in India succumb after diagnosis; lifestyle, awareness, and technology-led interventions crucial to stem the tide

India is facing a dramatic surge in cancer cases, with rising mortality rates revealing a critical health crisis. According to a recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) published in The Lancet, three out of every five cancer patients in India die post-diagnosis, an alarming statistic that underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action.

Cancer, a disease marked by uncontrolled cell growth that invades surrounding tissues and spreads throughout the body, is largely driven by genetic mutations. However, lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, poor diet, radiation exposure, and infections significantly increase the risk.

Among the most rapidly rising forms of cancer in India are breast cancer in women and oral cancer in men.

Breast cancer, now the most common cancer among Indian women, is being driven by shifts in women’s health and lifestyle. Factors like delayed marriage and childbirth, reduced breastfeeding, rising mental stress, lack of physical activity, and increasing obesity contribute significantly.

Oral cancer is spiking among men, largely due to widespread tobacco use, including gutkha, paan, and smoking. Poor oral hygiene and lack of regular check-ups result in late detection, making treatment less effective.

Other cancers such as lung, cervical, stomach, colorectal, and skin cancers are also on the rise. Lung cancer is now increasing among both men and women, further compounding the challenge.

The ICMR attributes this rise in cancer incidence to multiple causes, including:

• Drastic lifestyle changes
• Unhealthy dietary habits
• Sedentary routines
• Environmental pollution
• High prevalence of addictions such as tobacco and alcohol

In response, the Indian government has launched a range of public health policies and strategic interventions. These include:

• Nationwide awareness campaigns
• Screening programs for early detection
• Financial assistance for cancer treatment
• Strengthening of oncology infrastructure across public hospitals

However, key challenges remain. There is a pressing need for greater public awareness, technology-driven solutions, lifestyle interventions, and policy-level changes to support prevention and early diagnosis. Ensuring equitable access to treatment, especially in rural and underserved areas, is essential to reverse the growing trend.

With cancer poised to become one of India’s most pressing public health issues, sustained, multi-layered action from the government, healthcare systems, and communities is vital to mitigate the crisis.