Recent analyses by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have highlighted a concerning trend: cancer-related mortalities among females in India have increased more rapidly over the past decade compared to their male counterparts. Projections indicate that this upward trajectory is expected to persist over the next two decades.
Key Findings:
- Breast Cancer Dominance: Breast cancer has emerged as the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality among Indian women, accounting for 13.5% of new cancer cases and 10% of cancer-related deaths in 2020. Springer Link
- Cervical Cancer Concerns: Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among Indian women, contributing to 5.4% of the total cancer burden. Indian Council of Medical Research
- Geographical Disparities: Certain regions, particularly the northeastern states, exhibit higher cancer incidence rates. For instance, Aizawl district in Mizoram reports cancer rates seven times higher in males and four times higher in females compared to Osmanabad and Beed districts in Maharashtra. BMC Cancer
Contributing Factors:
- Lifestyle Changes: Urbanization and lifestyle modifications have led to increased exposure to risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and sedentary behaviors.
- Healthcare Access: Limited access to early detection and treatment facilities, especially in rural areas, contributes to late-stage diagnoses and higher mortality rates.
Projections:
Studies forecast a significant rise in cancer incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in India from 2022 to 2031. The Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model predicts a continued increase in cancer burden, underscoring the need for immediate public health interventions.
Recommendations:
- Enhanced Screening Programs: Implement widespread and accessible screening initiatives for early detection of prevalent cancers, particularly breast and cervical cancers.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate communities about cancer risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of regular health check-ups.
- Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: Improve healthcare facilities and ensure equitable access to diagnostic and treatment services across all regions.
- Research and Data Collection: Invest in cancer research and maintain comprehensive cancer registries to inform policy decisions and resource allocation.
Addressing the escalating cancer burden among Indian women requires a multifaceted approach, combining prevention, early detection, and improved treatment strategies to mitigate the projected rise in mortalities.
