20-August-2024-Special-Article

WHY ARE CANCER CASES SOARING IN INDIA?

A recent study published in the journal Cancer forecasts a troubling rise in global cancer cases and deaths among men by 2050. The projections highlight a pressing public health challenge that necessitates immediate and comprehensive action.

Findings of the Study

Projected Increase in Cancer Cases and Deaths:

• Rise in Cases: The study estimates that cancer cases among men will surge to 19 million by 2050, up from current figures.
• Increase in Deaths: Cancer-related deaths are expected to reach 10.5 million, a significant increase compared to recent data.

Projection of Specific Cancer Types:

• Mesothelioma: Cases are predicted to rise by 105.5%. This type of lung cancer will see substantial growth.
• Prostate Cancer: Deaths are projected to increase by 136.4%, indicating a severe impact.
• Testicular Cancer: The rise in incidence will be relatively modest at 22.7%, with deaths increasing by 40%.

Dominance of Lung Cancer:

• Leading Cancer Type: Lung cancer is anticipated to remain the most prevalent and deadliest form of cancer, with an expected increase of over 87% by 2050.

Disparities Across Age and Regions:

• Age Disparities: In 2022, about 10.3 million cancer cases and 5.4 million deaths were reported among men globally, with nearly two-thirds of cases in those aged 65 and older.
• Regional Differences: Cancer cases are projected to rise by 50.2% in high HDI (Human Development Index) countries and 138.6% in low HDI countries from 2022 to 2050. Deaths will increase by 63.9% in high HDI countries and 141.6% in low HDI countries.

High Mortality-to-Incidence Ratios:

• Older Men: The mortality-to-incidence ratio is notably high at 61% for older men.
• Low HDI Countries: The ratio stands at 74%, indicating poorer outcomes in these regions.
• Rare Cancers: Pancreatic cancer, a rare type, has an even higher mortality-to-incidence ratio of 91%, reflecting its poor survival rates.

State of Cancer Prevalence in India

Cancer Statistics in India:

• New Cases: In 2022, India reported 1,413,316 new cancer cases, with a higher incidence in women (722,138) compared to men (691,178).
• Breast Cancer: The most common cancer, with 192,020 new cases, accounting for 13.6% of all cancer cases in India and over 26% among women.
• Other Common Cancers: Following breast cancer, other prevalent types include lip and oral cavity (143,759 new cases), cervical and uterine, lung, and esophageal cancers.

Regional and Behavioral Factors:

• Global Burden: India accounted for 32.9% of global deaths and 28.1% of new cases of lip and oral cavity cancer in 2019, largely due to the consumption of smokeless tobacco.
• Cervical Cancer: India contributed to 23% of global cervical cancer deaths. The five-year survival rate in India stands at 51.7%, significantly lower than in high-income countries.

About Cancer:

Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and spread. These abnormal cells invade and destroy healthy tissues.

• Cell Cycle Disruption: Normal cell growth is regulated, but in cancer, genetic mutations cause cells to grow uncontrollably.

Government Initiatives for Cancer Control in India

Budgetary and Health Initiatives:

• Customs Duty Exemption: The Union Budget 2024-25 exempted three cancer medicines from customs duty.
• Vaccination Promotion: The Interim Budget 2024-25 promotes vaccination for girls aged 9-14 years to prevent cervical cancer.
• National Programmes: Includes the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke; National Cancer Grid; and National Cancer Awareness Day.
• HPV Vaccine and Health Centres: Introduction of the HPV vaccine and establishment of Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs).

Conclusion

The rising cancer incidence and mortality rates underscore the need for enhanced cancer control measures and healthcare infrastructure. Addressing these challenges through improved screening, prevention, and treatment strategies is crucial for mitigating the future impact of cancer on global health.

Mains Question:

1. Analyse the projected trends in global cancer incidence and mortality by 2050 and evaluate the effectiveness of current cancer control measures in India in addressing these trends. (150 WORDS)