Rising Cancer Rates Linked to Air Pollution in India
India faces a growing cancer epidemic, with air pollution emerging as factor. Recent studies show an alarming increase in lung cancer cases, especially among non-smokers. The Indian Council of Medical Research predicts that cancer cases will rise from 1.46 million in 2022 to 1.57 million in 2025. This trend raises concerns about the health impacts of air quality in the country.
Cancer Burden in India
Cancer is the second leading cause of death from non-communicable diseases in India. One in nine Indians is expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Lung cancer ranks among the most prevalent cancers in both men and women. Recent data indicates a shift in demographics, with a growing number of lung cancer patients being non-smokers.
Shift in Lung Cancer Patterns
Traditionally, lung cancer was linked to smoking. However, doctors report up to 30% of current lung cancer cases in India occur in non-smokers. Studies from Chennai show that non-smoking cases increased from 40% to over 55% in recent years. The histological types of lung cancer also differ. Non-smokers often present with adenocarcinoma, while smokers typically have squamous cell carcinoma.
Role of Air Pollution
Air pollution is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, with strong evidence linking it to lung cancer. In 2024, India was identified as the fifth most polluted country globally. The average PM 2.5 concentration in India is above World Health Organization recommendations. Experts assert that while the correlation between air pollution and lung cancer is evident, more data is needed to establish causation.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment
Lung cancer diagnosis in India often occurs at advanced stages due to nonspecific symptoms. Many healthcare professionals initially suspect tuberculosis, delaying cancer identification. Consequently, most patients present with late-stage disease, severely impacting survival rates. Although diagnostic facilities have improved, access remains limited, particularly in rural areas.
The Way Forward
There is an urgent need for comprehensive research on the links between air pollution and cancer in India. Experts advocate for multi-sectoral approaches to combat outdoor air pollution. The Northeast region presents an opportunity for intervention due to its relatively cleaner environment. Measures must focus on reducing both outdoor and indoor air pollution to mitigate the rising cancer burden.
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