October 14, 2024: India is grappling with a significant rise in cancer rates, particularly in cases of mouth cancers among men and breast cancer among women, according to a recent study published by the ICMR-National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research. This study, featured in the ECancer journal, highlights the critical situation not only in India but across the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

The findings reveal that lip and mouth cancers rank as the most frequently diagnosed cancers among Indian men, while breast cancer represents the highest proportion of cases in women. This stark increase underscores the urgent need for effective public health strategies and awareness campaigns to address these rising trends.

In the comparative analysis, researchers assessed cancer cases, mortality rates, and the overall impact on quality of life across the BRICS nations. Notably, Russia was identified as having the highest incidence of new cancer cases for both genders, with prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers being the most prevalent among men. Meanwhile, breast cancer emerged as a common concern across many BRICS countries, although lung cancer was notably more frequent among women in China.

The study also highlighted the concerning mortality rates associated with cancer. South Africa reported the highest death rates for both men and women, with Russia experiencing the most cancer-related deaths among men. In India, breast cancer accounted for the highest number of cancer-related fatalities, marking a significant public health challenge.

As the report indicates, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths across the BRICS nations, with the exception of India, where breast cancer prevails. The analysis points to a troubling trend: both South Africa and India are expected to see substantial increases in new cancer cases and related deaths in the coming years.

Experts urge immediate action to combat these alarming statistics, calling for enhanced screening, early detection, and improved treatment options to mitigate the growing cancer burden in India.