Cancer is a growing public health concern in India: dr sanjay mishra
bhavtarini.com@gmail.com 
Dr Sanjaya Kumar Mishra
Director & Senior consultant
Radoation Oncology
Utkal hospital
Bhubaneswar
Cancer is a growing public health concern in India and is the biggest challenge of this century with rising incidence due to population growth, aging, lifestyle changes , addictions and environmental factors. The most common cancers in India differ between men and women and are often linked to preventable risk factors.
Common Cancers in India
Among men, the most common cancers are oral cancer, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and stomach cancer. High tobacco consumption—both smoking and smokeless forms such as gutkha and paan—is a major contributor.
Among women, breast cancer is the leading cancer, followed by cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and oral cancer. Cervical cancer is closely associated with persistent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Awareness and Prevention
Lack of awareness leads to late diagnosis in many Indian patients. Public education about warning signs such as non-healing ulcers, unexplained weight loss, persistent lumps, abnormal bleeding, and chronic cough is essential.
Preventive strategies include:
• Tobacco cessation
• Healthy diet and physical activity
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• HPV vaccination for prevention of cervical cancer
• Hepatitis B vaccination to reduce liver cancer risk
Community-based awareness programs and school-level health education can significantly reduce cancer burden.
Early Detection
Early detection greatly improves survival and reduces treatment cost. Simple, cost-effective screening methods are available:
• Breast cancer: Breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, and mammography
• Cervical cancer: Pap smear, HPV testing, and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA)
• Oral cancer: Regular oral examination, especially in tobacco users
• Lung cancer: Early evaluation of persistent respiratory symptoms in high-risk individuals
Integration of cancer screening into primary healthcare services is crucial for early diagnosis.
Management
Cancer management involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on cancer type and stage. Early-stage cancers often require less aggressive treatment and have better outcomes. With the availability of advanced technology in Radiation, Surgery and chemotherapy the results are much superior with much higher cure rates now . Supportive care, rehabilitation, and palliative care are equally important to improve quality of life. Support from family friends and counselling from treating physician plays crucial role for cancer patients and Survivors.
Conclusion
Reducing the cancer burden in India requires a strong focus on awareness, prevention, early detection, and accessible treatment. With coordinated efforts from healthcare systems, policymakers, and communities, many cancers can be prevented or detected early, leading to improved survival and reduced suffering.
