India's Cancer Crisis: Oncologist Highlights Top 5 Risk Factors Driving Fatalities

India is facing an increasing cancer burden, with projections indicating a rise in cases. Dr. Jayesh Sharma, a prominent cancer surgeon, has highlighted the primary reasons contributing to cancer-related deaths in the country.

India faces a growing cancer crisis, with cases projected to rise significantly. Dr. Jayesh Sharma identifies key factors driving cancer deaths, including tobacco use, HPV, alcohol consumption, obesity, and poor diet. Addressing these issues through prevention, vaccination, lifestyle changes, and dietary improvements is crucial to curb the escalating cancer rates in India.

Here are the five critical factors identified by Dr. Sharma:

1. Tobacco Use

Tobacco consumption remains a leading cause of cancer deaths in India and worldwide. Dr. Sharma emphasizes that all forms of tobacco use, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, hookah, and khaini, substantially elevate cancer risk. He notes that approximately 120,000 lives are lost annually in India due to tobacco-related cancers. Lung, mouth, and throat cancers are particularly prevalent among users and those exposed to secondhand smoke.

2. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a significant contributor to cancer, especially cervical cancer. Dr. Sharma points out that HPV also contributes to cancers of the mouth and throat. The virus spreads through unsafe sexual practices and inadequate menstrual hygiene. Vaccination against HPV and education about safe practices are crucial for reducing cancer rates.

3. Alcohol Consumption

The increasing alcohol consumption in India is driving up cancer cases, according to Dr. Sharma. Alcohol consumption is not only detrimental to the liver but also increases the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake is vital for cancer prevention.

4. Obesity

While obesity is less prevalent in India compared to Western countries, it still contributes to cancer cases. Dr. Sharma states that obesity accounts for about 15% of cancers globally. Excess body weight is associated with various cancers, including breast, colon, and endometrium cancers. The rise in urbanization and sedentary lifestyles in India is leading to increased obesity rates. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise is crucial for mitigating this risk.

5. Poor Diet

Although many in India consume home-cooked meals, their diet often lacks essential nutrients. A well-balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for cancer prevention. Incorporating antioxidant-rich and high-fiber foods is beneficial. Dr. Sharma notes that poor diet is ranked fifth among cancer risk factors in India primarily because the population predominantly consumes home-cooked meals.