Cancer has plagued humanity for millennia, but some argue it’s morphing into a new kind of epidemic. It has slowly become a part of our lives, affecting nearly every family. While technically not a new disease, cancer rates are projected to rise dramatically, fuelled by our modern lifestyles. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Cancer Registry Programme (ICMR-NCRP), the number of cancer cases in the country is projected to go up from 14.6 lakh in 2022 to 15.7 lakh in 2025.
The most common cancers in India are breast, cervix and ovarian cancer among women and lung, mouth and prostate cancer among men. Also, the rise in cancer cases is part of a larger trend of increasing non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and mental health issues.
Let’s delve deeper into the causes of cancer in India:
Tobacco: The obvious does not need special mention.
The Diet Debacle: Our modern diet is a stark contrast to the diet of our ancestors. We now indulge in processed foods laden with sugar, unhealthy fats and preservatives. These foods contribute to obesity, a known risk factor for several cancers.
Lack of Movement: Our increasingly sedentary lifestyle is another culprit. Physical inactivity weakens the immune system and is linked to various cancers, including colon and breast cancer.
The Age Factor: Cancer incidence indeed increases with age. As we age, our cellular repair mechanisms weaken, making us more susceptible to mutations that can lead to cancer. However, with increasing lifespans, a larger portion of the population falls into this vulnerable age bracket.
Environmental Toxins: Modern life exposes us to a plethora of environmental toxins, from air and water pollution to chemicals in pesticides and household products. These toxins can damage DNA and contribute to cancer risk.
A Call to Action: By embracing a healthier lifestyle and going for regular cancer screenings, we can significantly reduce our cancer risk.
Prevent Cancer with Regular Screening Tests:
Regular cancer screening tests are essential for early detection and prevention. Here’s how:
Breast Cancer Screening- Mammograms detect breast cancer early, even before symptoms appear.
Cervical Cancer Screening- Pap tests find abnormal cervical cells that can become cancerous. HPV tests identify the virus causing these cell changes.
Colorectal Cancer Screening- Colonoscopy detects pre-cancerous polyps, preventing their progression to cancer.
Lung Cancer Screening- Low-dose CT Scans are recommended for high-risk individuals.
Cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and it’s essential to be sure of the entire process—from diagnosis to treatment. Seeking a second opinion helps you make informed choices and enhance your overall cancer care journey.
At SHALBY Sanar International Hospitals, we are equipped with state-of-the-art technology for diagnosis and management of all types of cancers. Leverage the combined expertise of leading oncologists from across the Shalby Group of Hospitals for your personalised cancer care plan.
Cancer remains a formidable foe, but by understanding the link between lifestyle and risk, we can empower ourselves to fight back. Let’s embrace a healthier way of living, not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.
The author is the Director & HOD at Surgical Oncology, in Sanar International Hospitals, Gurugram.
