Jaipriya K S, Content Writer, siliconindia

Marked as the ‘Cancer Capital of the World’ with a staggering amount of cancer cases, India’s battle against cancer is getting to its peak. Every year, more than 700,000 new cases are registered and cancer-related death counts record for over 556,400 lives lost annually. Among these, the county’s battle against cancer has accounted for a shocking report that women are holding a top-heavy share of the deadly burden. In the role of taunting the precious womanhood, cervical and breast cancers have been the leading threats, taking off lives at a frightening rate. India is standing at a critical edge in handling this crisis with an urgent action to reinforce cancer prevention and bolster screening practices and programs for ensuring timely treatment to save the countless lives of women cancer fighters.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research – National Cancer Registry Programme, the expected incidence of cancer cases is anticipated to grow enormously from 14.61 lakhs in 2022 to 15.7 lakhs in 2025.

Why women are affected more than men by cancer in India?

Exposure to Carcinogens: Women may be more exposed to certain carcinogens due to cultural practices, such as the use of tobacco in some regions.

Late Diagnosis: Women often seek medical attention later than men, which can lead to a higher incidence of advanced-stage cancers.

Gender-based Cancer Types: Among the most common cancers in India, women are more prone to specific types of cancers than women such as cervical, ovarian, and breast cancers. This type of cancer cases only occurs in women.

Lifestyle Factors: Fueled by a deadly combination of lifestyle factors such as increased fat diets, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles directly contribute to the higher cancer incidence in women.

Reduced Access to Healthcare: With limited access to healthcare facilities, preventive measures, and education, women in rural areas hold the risk of developing cancers, especially cervical cancers.

Family and Genetic History: This is the most vital risk factor for many types of cancer in women. Women with a family history of ovarian, breast, or cervical cancer are at a complex risk, demanding regular screening and genetic counseling.

Delayed Diagnosis: Typically, women are witnessed seeking medical attention later than men, which leads to a complex incidence of advanced to critical-stage cancers.

"Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, with alarming statistics revealing that one new case is diagnosed every four minutes. Early diagnosis is crucial, as it significantly increases survival rates—up to 90-95% when detected at stage one. It’s also important to note that breast cancer can affect men, yet many are unaware of this risk. Our Pink Walk saw participation from both women and men, highlighting that awareness and early detection are vital for everyone," added Dr. K.M.M. Vishvak Chanthar, Chief of Breast Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC.