Cancer is increasingly becoming one of the most pressing health crises facing India today. With over 20,000 new patients seeking treatment annually at government-run cancer centres alone, public health officials are sounding the alarm. Data indicates alarming trends: during the 2021-22 period, India recorded 20,049 new cancer cases at major government centres like the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram and Malabar Cancer Centre (MCC) in Kannur. Overall, the total estimated number of new cases, including those treated at private hospitals, reaches around 50,000 each year. Unfortunately, 32,271 individuals succumbed to this relentless disease in 2022.
Kerala, one of India’s states, stands out with rising cancer cases—34,183 being reported at RCC and MCC along with alarming spikes noted within the last two years. When considering the trends, Thiruvananthapuram has reported the highest surge, with new figures pointing to a staggering 36% increase when contrasted with previous data. The question looms large: why is cancer burgeoning like this?
Experts attribute much of this rise to changes in lifestyle, including poor dietary habits, pollution, and increased consumption of tobacco and alcohol. A 2019-20 survey indicated 16.9% of men regularly use tobacco, raising the risk of oral cancers significantly. Similarly, unhealthy eating is highlighted as one of the predominant causes, with over 38% of women aged 15-49 categorized as overweight.
The rising incidence of breast cancer, particularly Lobular Breast Cancer (LBC), presents yet another layer of complexity. Recognized traditionally as the second most prevalent form of breast cancer, LBC accounts for approximately 15% of all cases, it poses unique detection challenges. Dr. Jasmeet C. Singh, MD, Breast Medical Oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, highlights the alarming statistic: over 25% of breast cancer diagnoses now occur among women aged 40 or younger—a group not routinely screened.
“Alarmingly, this new trend shows the pressing need for heightened awareness and proactive management of breast cancer cases, particularly among younger women,” Dr. Singh notes, emphasizing the unique risk factors associated with LBC. “Hormone replacement therapies and genetic mutations, particularly affecting the CDH1 gene, increase the likelihood of developing this type of cancer,” he explains.
One of the complicators of LBC is its subtlety; unlike more common forms of breast cancer, such as Ductal Carcinoma, LBC often lacks distinctive lumps, making early detection more complex. Many patients may simply experience vague sensations, leading to later-stage discoveries when the cancer has significantly progressed, underscoring the imperative for improved detection strategies.
To counteract the challenge of timely diagnosis, Dr. Singh advocates for advanced imaging techniques such as ultrasound and MRI, which can detect subtle changes indicating LBC, especially for those at higher risk. Current treatment methodologies for LBC typically include surgery, hormone therapy, and possibly radiation therapy, focusing on tailoring each plan to exploit the specific characteristics of the cancer.
“Improving outcomes relies heavily on advances in imaging techniques and personalised treatment approaches,” Dr. Singh says, highlighting the pressing need for continued research. This is particularly pertinent as the incidence of lobular breast cancer rises, making early diagnosis and effective management more imperative than ever.
The steady rise of cancer across India is not merely numbers; it symbolizes the very real battles being fought daily by individuals and families against this formidable opponent. A comprehensive, responsive approach is required—one prioritizing awareness, advanced treatment strategies, and the urgent recognition of unique cancers like LBC. A revamped focus on research, prevention, and personalized care can pave the way forward for those grappling with cancer. It is time for all stakeholders, both public and private, to unite and confront this public health challenge head-on.