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Source: The post is based on the article “Mizoram has highest cancer incidence rate in India, finds study” published in “The Hindu” on 28th October 2023
Why in the News?
A study has been released titled “Cancer awareness, diagnosis and treatment needs in Mizoram, India: evidence from 18 years trends (2003–2020)’’.
What are the key findings of the study related to Cancer cases in Mizoram?
| Specifications | Details |
| Highest Cancer Incidence in Mizoram | Mizoram has the highest cancer incidence rate in India despite being the second least populated state in India. |
| Most Cancer causes | Stomach cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related deaths in men, while lung cancer is a significant cause among women. |
| Increase in Cancer cases among younger population | Cancer cases and deaths are growing among the younger generation in Mizoram. Factors might include the sedentary lifestyle and dietary habits among the local tribal population. |
| Reasons for higher cancer deaths in Mizoram | Lack of specialized diagnostic facilities, skilled medical personnel, treatment strategies based on genetic research and transportation challenges. |
What is Cancer?
According to the World Health Organisation, cancer is a large group of diseases that can start in almost any organ or tissue of the body when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and go beyond their usual boundaries to invade adjoining parts of the body or spread to other organs.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally accounting for one in six deaths in 2018.
Among men, lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach and liver cancer are the most common types of cancer.
Among women, Breast, colorectal, lung, cervical and thyroid cancer are the most common among women.
What is the data related to cancer cases in India?
1.Cancer Likelihood: One in nine people in India is at risk of developing cancer during their lifetimes.
2.Leading Cancer causes: Lung cancer is prominent among males, while breast cancer is prevalent among females.
– For childhood cancers (0-14 years), lymphoid leukaemia is the most common cause.
3.Expected Increase in Cancer Cases: Study has indicated a 12.8% increase in cancer cases in India by 2025 compared to 2020.
UPSC Syllabus: Social Issues, Health and Disease
