United by Unique: Tackling growing cancer challenge
World Cancer Day, established by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and observed on February 4th, holds profound significance in the global fight against cancer. This day serves as a platform to raise awareness, educate the public on prevention, early detection, and treatment, and unite individuals, communities, and organisations across the globe in the battle against cancer:
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025, “United by Unique”, marks the beginning of a three-year campaign from 2025 to 2027. This initiative emphasises a people-centred approach to cancer care, recognising the individuality of each patient’s journey. By sharing personal stories, the campaign aims to foster empathy, understanding, and inclusivity in cancer care. The “United by Unique” campaign has three core objectives: highlight personal stories, encourage personalised care, and foster inclusivity in cancer treatment.
Cancer is rapidly becoming one of the leading causes of death in India, a nation of over 1.4 billion people. As cancer rates continue to rise, the burden on the healthcare system, individuals, and families has grown considerably. India faces a unique set of challenges in this evolving cancer epidemic, calling for urgent action to enhance awareness, improve access to care, and strengthen both prevention and treatment strategies.
The estimated age-adjusted cancer rate in India stands at 107.0 per 100,000 people. The five leading types of cancer in the country are digestive system cancers (2,88,054 cases), breast cancer (2,21,757), genital cancers (2,18,319), oral cavity and pharynx cancers (1,98,438), and respiratory system cancers (1,43,062). The lifetime risk of developing any type of cancer between the ages of 0 and 74 is 1 in 9 for both men and women. For lung cancer in men, it is 1 in 67, and for breast cancer in women, it is 1 in 29.
The growing cancer burden in India presents significant challenges. Several factors contribute to this increase, including lifestyle and environmental influences. These include tobacco use, unhealthy diets and obesity, air pollution, infections, and delayed diagnoses. Public awareness remains low in many areas, which contributes to cancer being diagnosed at more advanced stages. This lack of awareness, coupled with inadequate screening programs and a shortage of skilled professionals, results in lower survival rates for patients. Genetic predisposition also plays a role in certain cancers, such as breast cancer, but early detection remains a critical factor in improving survival chances.
The growing cancer burden in India demands immediate attention and concerted action at both the policy and community levels. The challenges are significant, but not insurmountable. By focusing on prevention, early detection, improving access to care, and expanding public awareness, India can make meaningful progress in combating the cancer epidemic.
Collaboration among government bodies, healthcare professionals, researchers, and non-profit organizations is essential to ensure equitable cancer care, particularly for underserved populations in rural and remote areas. Investment in cancer research, treatment infrastructure, and education will be key to reducing the cancer burden and improving survival rates in the years ahead.
(By Dr Rajiv Devgan)
