India faces a looming crisis in cancer prevalence, with Apollo Hospitals' latest Health of the Nation 2024 report sounding alarm bells. According to the report, nearly 14 lakh people in India battled cancer in 2020, a number expected to surge to 15.7 lakhs by 2025.

Over the past two decades, non-communicable diseases have witnessed a steep rise, emerging as the leading cause of death in the country. Of particular concern is the escalating incidence of cancer, positioning India as a potential contender for the title of 'cancer capital' of the world.

The report sheds light on the gender-specific prevalence of cancer in India, with breast, cervix, and ovarian cancers most prevalent among women, while lung, mouth, and prostate cancers dominate among men. Early detection emerges as a critical factor in improving survival rates, with 98 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer at an early stage achieving a favorable five-year survival rate.

Furthermore, the report highlights that cancer diagnoses in India occur at a younger age compared to other nations, with the average age for breast cancer diagnosis at 52, lung cancer at 54, and prostate cancer at 59. This trend underscores the urgency for proactive measures in preventive healthcare.

The report identifies inadequate screening rates as a significant hurdle in India's fight against cancer, falling below global benchmarks. It underscores the urgent need for proactive steps in preventive healthcare to address this gap.

Causes and Prevention:

The World Health Organization (WHO) outlines preventive measures to mitigate cancer risk, including avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption, vaccination against HPV and hepatitis B, minimizing exposure to carcinogens, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Other Health Concerns:

The Apollo report also highlights a concerning rise in mental health disorders, particularly among young adults, with depression affecting one in five individuals aged 18 to 25. Chronic stress contributes to hypertension and diabetes, with obesity emerging as a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases.

The prevalence of high blood pressure and prediabetes is also on the rise, especially among the younger population, indicating a pressing need for comprehensive public health interventions to address these alarming trends.