Study Reveals Cancer Trends in India: Women Most Affected, Men Face Higher Mortality

A comprehensive study conducted by the **National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research**, part of the **Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)**, has revealed significant trends in cancer incidence and mortality across India. The findings, published in the **JAMA Network Open**, highlight that while women represent the highest number of cancer cases, men are at a greater risk of mortality.

Between **2015 and 2019**, the study analyzed data from **708,223 cancer cases** and **206,457 mortality cases** sourced from **43 population-based cancer registries**. The results indicate that over **50 percent** of reported cancer incidences were among women, contrasting with **49 percent** for men. However, mortality rates were significantly higher in men, with **55 percent** of deaths attributed to cancer, compared to **45 percent** for women.

Common Cancers and Regional Disparities

The study identified the most prevalent cancers among men, which included **mouth cancer** (113,249 cases), **lung cancer** (74,763), and **prostate cancer** (49,998). In women, the leading types of cancer were **breast cancer** (238,085 cases), **cervical cancer** (78,499), and **ovarian cancer** (48,984). Notably, cancers of the female genital system accounted for an estimated **171,497 cases**, while cancers of the oral cavity and pharynx contributed to **217,327 cases** in men.

Researchers emphasized the urgent need to enhance cancer prevention and control measures, particularly as the burden of cancer appears to be rising rapidly in rural areas. Districts in **Kerala** and **Assam**, where more than **50 percent** of the population resides in rural settings, reported the highest cancer burdens for both men and women. The study noted that, on average, **76 men** and **67 women** per **100,000** people in these areas were diagnosed with cancer.

Regions such as **Aizawl**, **East Khasi Hills**, **Papumpare**, **Kamrup Urban**, and **Mizoram** consistently recorded the highest incidence rates. In particular, **oesophageal cancer** was found to be the most prevalent in northeastern India.

Projected Incidence and Mortality Rates

In urban areas, **Delhi** emerged with the highest overall cancer incidence rate, reporting **146 cases per 100,000** individuals. The city of **Ahmedabad** also showed a notable increase, with cancer cases rising by **4.7 percent** among men and **6.9 percent** among women.

Based on the data, the researchers project that the estimated cancer incidence for **2024** will reach **1,562,099 cases**, while estimated cancer mortality is expected to be **874,404 cases**. Among these figures, new cases for females are projected at **781,277**, and for males, at **780,822**.

The findings of this extensive study underscore the critical need for ongoing efforts in cancer research and public health initiatives to address the growing burden of cancer in India.