Why Are Cancer Cases Higher in Women in India but Men Face Greater Mortality Risks?
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Synopsis
A recent ICMR study uncovers alarming cancer trends in India, revealing that while women face the highest incidence rates, men are at greater risk of mortality. With rising cases particularly in rural areas, urgent measures are needed to combat this growing health crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Women have the highest cancer incidence in India.
- Men face a greater risk of cancer mortality.
- Common cancers differ between genders.
- The cancer burden is increasing rapidly in rural areas.
- Projections indicate significant future cancer cases and deaths.
New Delhi, Sep 3 (NationPress) A recent study led by the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research under the Indian Council of Medical Research reveals that women have the highest incidence of cancers in India, while men are at greater risk of mortality. This comprehensive study, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from 708,223 cancer cases and 206,457 mortality cases across 43 population-based cancer registries (PBCRs) from 2015 to 2019.
Women accounted for over 50 percent of cancer incidences, while men represented 49 percent. However, the mortality rates indicate a concerning trend, with 55 percent of deaths occurring in males compared to 45 percent in females.
The most prevalent cancers among men were mouth cancer (113,249 cases), followed by lung cancer (74,763) and prostate cancer (49,998). For women, the leading types included breast cancer (238,085 cases), cervix cancer (78,499), and ovarian cancer (48,984).
Interestingly, female genital system cancers were estimated to total 171,497 cases, while oral cavity and pharynx cancers accounted for 217,327 cases among men. The researchers emphasized the need for enhanced cancer prevention and control measures to mitigate the cancer burden in India.
Alarmingly, the cancer burden is rising rapidly in rural regions, with districts in Kerala and Assam, where more than 50 percent of the population resides in rural areas, showing the highest cancer rates among both genders.
The study found that an average of 76 men and 67 women per 100,000 people in these rural areas have cancer. Further, regions such as Aizawl, East Khasi Hills, Papumpare, Kamrup Urban, and Mizoram in northeastern India consistently report the highest cancer incidence rates, with oesophageal cancer being particularly prevalent.
In metropolitan areas, Delhi leads with an overall cancer incidence of 146 cases per 100,000. Notably, Ahmedabad has seen a significant increase, with a rise of 4.7 percent in men and 6.9 percent in women.
Based on these findings, researchers project that the estimated cancer incidence for 2024 will reach 1,562,099 cases, with an expected mortality of 874,404 cases. Of these, the estimated new cases for females are 781,277, while for males, it is 780,822.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of addressing the escalating cancer crisis in India. This study highlights significant disparities between genders, emphasizing the need for targeted healthcare initiatives. It is crucial for our nation to prioritize cancer prevention and treatment, especially in rural areas, where the burden is rapidly increasing.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the ICMR study reveal about cancer in India?
The ICMR study found that women report the highest incidence of cancers, while men have a higher mortality risk. Over 50% of cancer cases were among women, while 55% of cancer deaths were in men.
Which types of cancer are most common among men and women?
For men, the most common cancers are mouth cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer. For women, breast cancer, cervix cancer, and ovarian cancer are the most prevalent.
How does cancer incidence vary between rural and urban areas?
The study indicates that cancer incidence is rising rapidly in rural areas, with districts in Kerala and Assam reporting the highest burdens among both men and women.
What are the projections for cancer incidence in 2024?
Researchers estimate that the cancer incidence for 2024 will be approximately 1,562,099 cases, with expected mortality rates of 874,404.
What steps are being recommended to address the cancer crisis in India?
The researchers emphasize the need for enhanced cancer prevention and control measures to lessen the burden of cancer across the country.
