Is India Emerging As The New Cancer Capital of The World?

An annual Health of Nation report shared by Apollo Hospitals indicates that there is a steady rise in several non-communicable diseases in India, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease which is significantly impacting the nation’s overall health. The concern is cancer screening is still low in our country.

According to the data shared by Apollo Hospitals in their report, it seems that India is emerging as the cancer capital of the world. The study pointed out that around 63 percent of all deaths in India are due to non-communicable diseases and by 2030 these diseases will cost India a whopping $3.55 dollars in economic losses.

The Key Findings of the Report Point Out

The number of cancer cases detected in 2020 was 1.39 million

The number of cancer cases expected in 2025 is 1.57 million

Also, it highlights the fact that the median age of cancer detection in India is lower than in other countries. The average age for breast cancer detection in India is 53 years as compared to 63 years in Europe and US. The average age for lung cancer diagnosis is 59 years, while it is 70 years for patients in the West. Around 30 % of people diagnosed with colon cancer are less than 50 years of age. However, screening for cancer in India is low compared to other countries. Mass awareness and regular screening are the need of the hour to ensure early detection and prevention.