The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a sobering estimate that nearly one in 10 Indians is at risk of developing cancer before the age of 75, highlighting the country’s growing cancer burden. According to oncologists, the increase is being driven by a combination of unhealthy lifestyle habits, persistent tobacco use, environmental exposures, chronic infections, and delayed diagnosis, making prevention and early detection more important than ever.
Dr. R. Ranga Rao, Chairman – Medical Oncology, Paras Health, says India’s cancer profile is changing rapidly. While many Western countries primarily battle obesity-related cancers, India faces a dual burden of traditional tobacco-related cancers alongside a sharp rise in lifestyle-associated cancers. “Unlike many Western nations where obesity is the dominant driver, India continues to face a dual burden – persistent tobacco-related cancers alongside a rapid rise in lifestyle-associated cancers,” he said.
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Tobacco still tops the list of cancer risks
Despite increased awareness, tobacco remains the leading preventable cause of cancer in India. Smoking, chewing tobacco, and areca nut consumption continue to fuel high rates of oral cancer, one of the country’s most common malignancies.
At the same time, cancers such as breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer are becoming increasingly common due to sedentary lifestyles, obesity, unhealthy diets, delayed pregnancies, hormonal changes, and physical inactivity.
Health experts also point to excessive alcohol consumption and prolonged exposure to environmental pollutants as additional contributors to the rising cancer burden. “There is also growing concern about the cumulative impact of contaminants in our food chain,” he said.
Hidden risk factors under investigation
Researchers are increasingly studying the role of contaminants in the food chain. Exposure to pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables, adulterants in food, contaminants in cereals and pulses, and antibiotic or hormone residues in animal products are being investigated for their possible contribution to cancer risk.
Scientists are also exploring the role of the human microbiome – the trillions of microorganisms living in the body. Although research is still evolving, changes in the microbiome may partly explain why cancers are being diagnosed more frequently in younger adults.
Infections also increase the risk of cancer
Certain chronic infections continue to account for a significant proportion of cancers in India. These include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV), linked to cervical cancer.
- Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, associated with liver cancer.
- Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial infection linked to stomach cancer.
Why does delayed diagnosis cost lives?
According to Dr. Chinkal Panihar, Consultant – Medical Oncology, Kailash Hospital & Neuro Institute, one of the biggest challenges is that many patients seek medical attention only after symptoms become severe. Lack of awareness, fear of diagnosis, social stigma, and poor participation in preventive screening programmes often result in cancers being detected at advanced stages, when treatment becomes more complex, and survival rates are lower.
Early-stage cancers, on the other hand, are generally more treatable and often have significantly better outcomes. “Early-stage cancers often have better treatment outcomes, highlighting the importance of timely evaluation and diagnosis,” he said.
How to lower your cancer risk?
According to Dr. Panihar, while not every cancer can be prevented, a substantial proportion can be avoided through healthier lifestyle choices and regular screening. He recommends:
- Avoid all forms of tobacco and limit alcohol consumption.
- Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fibre.
- Get vaccinated against HPV and Hepatitis B where recommended.
- Participate in age-appropriate screening for breast, cervical, colorectal, and oral cancers.
Seek prompt medical evaluation for persistent symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, persistent mouth ulcers, lumps, chronic cough, or changes in bowel habits. Undergo an annual preventive health check-up from the age of 20, particularly if there is a family history of cancer or other risk factors.
As India’s cancer burden continues to grow, oncologists say prevention, awareness, and timely diagnosis remain the country’s strongest weapons. Simple lifestyle modifications, avoiding tobacco, staying physically active, receiving recommended vaccinations, and not ignoring early warning signs can dramatically improve survival and quality of life.
TIMES NOW | OPINION
Cancer is life-altering, but it is not always a death sentence. Oncologists agree on one truth: early detection is our most powerful weapon. The sooner it is caught, the better the odds of survival. As global cases climb, awareness cannot stay optional and action cannot wait. Early diagnosis doesn’t just save lives, it gives people a fighting chance.