Cancer deaths in India alarming despite lower early diagnosis rates

Recent data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reveals a striking contrast in cancer risk between India and developed nations like the US and Canada. While the risk of developing cancer before the age of 75 is significantly lower in India at 10.6%, compared to 34.3% in the US and 32.2% in Canada, the death risk for Indians stands at 7.2%, almost on par with the figures for both the US and Canada at 8.8%.

The IARC predicts a 77% increase in new cancer cases globally by 2050, reaching over 35 million cases, attributing this surge to population aging, growth, and changes in exposure to risk factors, including tobacco, alcohol, and obesity.

Between 30–50% of cancer cases are preventable, making prevention the most cost-effective long-term strategy. The World Health Organisation (WHO) collaborates with member states to raise awareness, reduce exposure to risk factors, and promote healthy lifestyles.



The WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) outlines a roadmap to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by 2025, focusing on key risk factors:

Tobacco: The leading avoidable risk for cancer mortality, causing over 8 million deaths annually.

Alcohol: Linked to 7 types of cancer, contributing to 740,000 new cases yearly.

Physical inactivity, dietary factors, obesity: Overweight and obesity are associated with various cancers.

Infections: Viruses like hepatitis and HPV contribute to 25% of cancer cases in low- and middle-income countries.

Environmental pollution: Outdoor and household air pollution contribute significantly to cancer risks.

Occupational carcinogens and radiation: Work-related exposures and ionizing radiation increase cancer risks.

A study published in eClinical Medicine reveals that nearly 2.25 lakh people died in India in 2020 due to preventable risk factors. Tobacco smoking was the primary driver, causing 1.1 lakh deaths, followed by HPV (89,100), alcohol consumption (41,600), and excess body weight (8,000). China led in preventable cancer deaths (11.4 lakh), followed by India (2.2 lakh), emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive preventive measures.

As the global cancer burden rises, prioritising prevention and addressing preventable risk factors is crucial to ensuring a healthier future for all.