Rising Cancer Rates in India: Surge in Mouth and Breast Cancer Cases
Rising Cancer Rates in India: Surge in Mouth and Breast Cancer Cases
India is currently facing a crisis of rising cancer rates, particularly with a significant increase in mouth cancer cases among men and breast cancer cases among women. A recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) highlights these trends, revealing critical insights into the prevalence and impact of cancer in the country.
Key Findings on Cancer Prevalence
According to the ICMR’s National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research, lip and mouth cancers are the most frequently diagnosed among men in India, while breast cancer accounts for the highest proportion of cancer cases among women. This data was published in a comparative study in the ECancer journal, which examined cancer cases, deaths, and quality of life impacts—measured by Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs)—across the BRICS countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The study also shed light on the cancer landscape in the BRICS nations, detailing how common different cancers are, mortality rates, and the extent to which these illnesses affect individuals’ daily lives.
Comparative Analysis Across BRICS Countries
The study found that Russia had the highest rate of new cancer cases for both men and women, with prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers being the most common among men. However, in India, lip and mouth cancers are prevalent among men, while breast cancer is the leading type of cancer among women—a pattern that is consistent across most BRICS nations.
In contrast, lung cancer was more prevalent among women in China. South Africa recorded the highest cancer death rates for both men and women, while Russia had the highest number of cancer-related deaths among men. For women, South Africa led in cancer deaths.
Lung cancer emerged as the primary cause of cancer-related deaths in all BRICS countries, except for India, where breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths. Across these countries, lung-related cancers, such as those of the trachea and bronchus, were responsible for a substantial loss in life years. India stood out as an exception, where breast cancer had the greatest impact.
The rising rates of mouth and breast cancers in India call for urgent attention to cancer prevention, early detection, and improved treatment options. As the BRICS countries work towards economic development, it is crucial to strengthen health systems and address the risk factors associated with cancer to reduce its burden on individuals and society as a whole.
