Cancer in India: Burden, Policies, and Solutions

Context

• Cancer is a major public health issue, with 1 in 9 Indians at risk (ICMR, 2023).
• A recent ICMR study found that people near river drains face higher cancer risk due to heavy metal contamination.
• Cancer cases in India may rise to 15.7 lakh by 2025, with late diagnosis and high treatment costs worsening the burden.

What is Cancer?

• A disease where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts.
• Common types: Carcinoma (Lung, Breast), Leukemia, Lymphoma, Sarcoma, Melanoma.
• Stages:
  • Stage I-III: Localized or spread to nearby tissues.
  • Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs.

Government Initiatives

1. Tertiary Care Cancer Facilities Scheme

• Launched: 2013-14 under NPCDCS.
• Objective: Strengthen tertiary cancer care.
• Funding: Up to ₹120 Cr for SCIs & ₹45 Cr for TCCCs (60:40 Centre-State; 90:10 for Northeast).

2. Ayushman Bharat - PM-JAY

• Covers ₹5 lakh per family per year.
• Includes Medical, Surgical & Radiation Oncology.
• Covers all senior citizens (70+), irrespective of income.

3. PM Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

• Low-cost generic medicines via PMBJKs.
• Reduces cancer drug costs by 50-90%.

4. AMRIT Initiative

• Provides cancer medicines at 60-70% discounts.
• Operates 190+ pharmacies in major hospitals.

Challenges

• 75% of cases detected late (Stage III or IV).
• High treatment costs & lack of specialists.
• Limited cancer hospitals (62 for 1.4 billion people).

Way Forward

• Strengthening early detection & screening.
• Expanding affordable treatment options.
• Boosting cancer research & awareness campaigns.

Conclusion

Cancer remains a growing challenge, requiring stronger prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment expansion to reduce mortality and improve health outcomes.