Barasat, November 15, 2025: Cancer continues to rise as a major public health challenge in India, with 1 out of every 9 people at lifetime risk of developing cancer, according to an ICMR study. Marking Lung, Pancreatic, and Stomach Cancer Awareness Month, Suraksha Diagnostic Limited (“Suraksha Clinic and Diagnostics”) organised a special cancer awareness session at its Helabattala Centre, bringing together leading oncologists and specialists.
The event was graced by Dr. Bibartan Saha (Renowned Radiologist, Suraksha Diagnostics Barasat),
Dr. Rajarshi Goswami (Oncologist, Suraksha Bangaon, Habra & Barasat),
Dr. Ipsheet Mishra (Oncosurgeon, Suraksha Diagnostics Ekbalpur), and
Dr. Kaustav Mandal (Radiation Oncologist, Suraksha Jadavpur).
The session aimed to enhance public understanding of cancer risk factors, early warning signs, timely interventions, and preventive measures. Speakers highlighted the growing incidence of cancer in India, stressing the importance of early detection, lifestyle modifications, and improved access to screening facilities.
Rising Cancer Burden in India
As referenced in a recent JAMA Network Open report, India now ranks second in Asia and third globally in cancer incidence. Data collected from 43 population-based cancer registries reveals a lifetime cancer risk of approximately 11%, with lung, oral, and prostate cancers most common among men, and breast, cervical, and ovarian cancers among women.
In 2022 alone, India recorded 1.46 million new cancer cases, equivalent to a crude incidence rate of 100.4 cases per 100,000 people. Late-stage detection remains a primary driver of mortality. India reported 8–9 lakh cancer-related deaths in 2020, making cancer one of the top five causes of death in the country.
Experts note that tobacco use accounts for nearly 40% of cancers in India, followed by alcohol consumption, obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, infections (HPV, Hepatitis), pollution, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Insights from Experts at Suraksha Diagnostics
Speaking at the session, Dr. Rajarshi Goswami stressed the critical role of awareness and screening:
“Awareness and screening are the bedrock of cancer control. Detecting cancer at Stage I instead of Stage IV completely changes patient outcomes. Early diagnosis reduces treatment costs, increases productivity, and prevents financial distress for families.”
He highlighted Suraksha’s comprehensive oncology services, including specialised OPD consultations and multidisciplinary care across its centres.
Dr. Bibartan Saha emphasised the importance of imaging in early diagnosis, adding:
“Cancer is a word, not a sentence. When you go through deep waters, Suraksha Diagnostic will be with you.”
Dr. Kaustav Mandal discussed the critical role of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in managing common cancers such as breast, cervical, head, and neck cancers.
Growing Concerns for Younger Population
Cancer cases among individuals aged 20–40 years are rising sharply in India. Studies from BMJ Oncology (2023) and Mayo Clinic Proceedings (2025) report significant increases in early-onset cancers, particularly those of the gastrointestinal tract.
ICMR projects 15.7 lakh new cancer cases in 2025, increasing to 22.1 lakh by 2040. Meanwhile, national registries indicate 50,000 to 75,000 new childhood cancer cases each year, with leukemia being the most common.
Experts attribute rising early-onset cancers to pollution, chronic stress, poor diet, and disrupted lifestyle patterns among young professionals.
Call for Prevention and Early Action
Lifestyle changes—balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, maintaining healthy body weight, reducing pollution exposure, and vaccinations—were strongly recommended.
Dr. Somnath Chatterjee, Chairman & Joint Managing Director of Suraksha Clinic and Diagnostics, stated:
*“Through awareness, early detection
