India's lung cancer burden in numbers
Every year, nearly 60,000 people in India die because of lung cancer. Globally, in 2020, lung cancer was the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths. These numbers highlight the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and strong efforts to reduce tobacco use.
According to the Population Based Cancer Registries Report 2016, lung cancer cases are highest in India's northeastern states.Data from the National Cancer Registry Programme shows that lung cancer rates among men range from 4.6 per 100,000 in Wardha to 38.8 in Aizawl. Among women, the rates range from 1 in Barshi to 37.9 in Aizawl.In comparison, the western and central parts of India have fewer lung cancer cases. This difference may be due to the varying smoking habits in different regions. Overall, about 18.9% of India's population smokes, but the numbers differ widely — from 16.2% in Kerala to as high as 72% in Mizoram.
Lung-cancer patterns in India look a lot like those in other Asian countries such as China.Fewer people here get the disease than in Western nations, yet they tend to be diagnosed about ten years earlier. Sadly, more of them die from it: many discover the cancer only after it has spread, arrive at clinics or hospitals in poorer health, and often cannot access the newest treatments.Smoking is a main driver. The latest Global Adult Tobacco Survey shows that 28.6% of Indians aged 15-24 smoke regularly, and the country has about 253 million tobacco users overall - one of the highest totals in the world.
In India, lung cancer is more common in males than in females. In 2020, an estimated 71,788 men and 26,490 women were diagnosed with the disease. By 2025, the number of cases is expected to rise, with projections showing 81,219 cases in men and 30,109 in women.This growing trend highlights the need for stronger prevention, early detection, and awareness efforts, especially among high-risk groups.
With lung cancer cases steadily rising, with nearly one in four patients in India being non-smokers, there is an urgent need for early intervention, greater public awareness, and stronger policies that promote cleaner air and healthier lifestyles.- EndsMust Watch
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