• UGI USER
  • Oct 30, 2023
  • 29 Likes
  • 3 Comments

Cancer

Why in the news?

According to a recent study, Mizoram has the highest cancer incidence rate in India.

Findings of the Study

  • The Study was titled , “Awareness, diagnosis and treatment needs in Mizoram, India: evidence from 18 years trends (2003-2020)” published in The Lancet Regional Health South-east Asia.
  • An 18-year trend study reveals increasing cancer incidence and mortality in Mizoram.
  • Stomach cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men, while lung cancer plays a similar role among women.
  • The younger generation is also experiencing a rise in cancer cases, potentially linked to static lifestyles and dietary habits prevalent in the tribal population.
  • A genetic predisposition may be contributing to this trend.
  • Escalating mortality rates may be due to a lack of:
    • Specialized diagnostic facilities,
    • Skilled human resources,
    • Genomic research-guided treatment strategies, and
    • Transportation challenges in the region.

Cancer in India

  • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is defined as a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body.
  • These abnormal cells can form tumors or invade surrounding tissues and organs, causing various health problems.
  • Over the past decade, the average annual incidence of cancer in India has risen from around 10 lakh in 2012 to 14.6 lakh in 2022.
  • One in nine people are likely to develop cancer in his/her lifetime.
  • Lung and breast cancers were the leading sites of cancer in males and females, respectively.

India’s initiatives for Against Cancer

  • National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) – for systematic collection of data on cancer .
  • National Program for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS), etc.