50-60 pc cancer cases detected in India annually are preventable, say oncologists

admin August 29, 2023

Cancer remains one of the most significant public health challenges worldwide, and India is no exception. With the increasing burden of cancer cases in the country, oncologists and health experts have stressed that a large proportion of these cases, approximately 50-60%, are preventable. This stark reality highlights a critical gap in the country’s healthcare system and calls for urgent action at both individual and societal levels. From lifestyle modifications to improving access to early screening and treatment, there are numerous ways to significantly reduce the number of cancer cases that could otherwise be avoided. India is witnessing a rise in cancer cases due to various factors such as population growth, changing lifestyles, and increased life expectancy. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India records over 13 lakh new cases of cancer each year. While cancer can affect anyone, certain risk factors – such as tobacco use, poor diet, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, and exposure to environmental pollutants – contribute significantly to the development of the disease. These modifiable risk factors play a major role in the preventability of cancer, making it possible to reduce the number of new cancer cases with appropriate preventive measures. A significant number of cancer cases are linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices, many of which are preventable with better awareness and behavior changes. Smoking, for example, is the leading cause of lung cancer, and yet it remains prevalent in India, with millions of people still indulging in tobacco use despite the well-documented risks. Other forms of tobacco, such as chewing betel nut and snuff, are also strongly linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. The reduction or elimination of tobacco consumption could drastically reduce the incidence of these cancers, yet tobacco control remains a major public health challenge in India. Similarly, alcohol consumption is a recognized risk factor for several cancers, including those of the liver, breast, and esophagus. Studies show that heavy drinking increases the risk of cancer, particularly when combined with other unhealthy habits like poor diet or lack of exercise. There is a growing need for increased awareness about the risks of alcohol abuse and its connection to cancer. Another critical factor in the preventability of cancer is poor dietary habits. Diets high in processed foods, red meats, and unhealthy fats, coupled with low consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fiber, are associated with an increased risk of cancers such as colorectal, stomach, and breast cancer. The rise in urbanization and changing food habits have contributed to a growing number of cases of obesity and overweight, both of which are known to increase the risk of various cancers. Simple changes in diet, such as reducing the intake of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats, and increasing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can lower cancer risks substantially. Early detection of cancer is another critical factor that can help prevent many cancer-related deaths. When cancers are detected in their early stages, treatment options are often more effective, and the chances of survival are higher. Unfortunately, many cancers in India are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when the disease is more difficult and expensive to treat. Early detection programs, including routine screenings for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers, have been shown to significantly reduce cancer-related mortality.

For instance, cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. However, it is preventable with regular screening and vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that causes the majority of cervical cancers. Similarly, breast cancer is more treatable when detected early. Mammograms and self-examination techniques can play a crucial role in identifying breast cancer before it spreads. Public health initiatives aimed at improving awareness and access to screening facilities are essential for reducing the number of preventable cancer deaths in the country. In addition to lifestyle factors, environmental pollution is another significant cause of cancer in India. Air pollution, in particular, has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. With rapidly growing cities and industrialization, India faces severe air pollution levels, especially in urban areas. Exposure to carcinogenic chemicals in the air, water, and soil, such as pesticides and industrial waste, also raises cancer risks. Addressing environmental pollution through stricter regulations, improved waste management, and reducing emissions from vehicles and factories could play a major role in cancer prevention. One of the most effective ways to prevent cancer is through education and raising awareness about modifiable risk factors. Many people in India are not fully aware of the links between lifestyle habits and cancer, which leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Awareness campaigns focusing on the importance of healthy eating, regular exercise, tobacco cessation, and alcohol moderation could significantly reduce cancer rates. Additionally, increasing access to information about the importance of early screening and vaccination can help prevent cancer deaths. Preventing cancer in India requires a multifaceted approach that involves government policy, healthcare professionals, and the general public. Governments must invest in creating a stronger healthcare infrastructure, promoting cancer awareness, and implementing more widespread screening programs. Healthcare providers, on their part, should focus on preventive care and counseling patients about the importance of healthy habits. Public-private partnerships can help bridge the gap in resources and ensure that cancer prevention initiatives reach underserved communities. The role of the community cannot be underestimated either. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local leaders can play a crucial role in spreading awareness about cancer prevention and creating support systems for those affected by the disease. Mass media campaigns, particularly those targeting rural and underserved populations, can also be instrumental in disseminating vital information. The fact that 50-60% of cancer cases in India are preventable is a powerful reminder that many lives could be saved if the country places greater emphasis on prevention. By addressing lifestyle risk factors, promoting early detection, tackling environmental pollution, and improving awareness, India can significantly reduce its cancer burden. However, this will require .