The looming threat of cancer continues to cast a dark shadow over India’s health landscape, impacting millions of lives. According to the Global Cancer Observatory, India has seen a staggering 2.08 million new cancer cases in 2023, placing the country in the third spot globally. However, these alarming figures may only be the tip of the iceberg, with actual incidence estimated to be three times higher than reported.

The National Cancer Registry Program Report 2020 predicts a rising trend in cancer cases due to factors such as late-stage detection, limited interventions, and poor treatment outcomes. These factors pose a significant challenge, as burden of cancer not only affects individuals but also has a far-reaching social and economic consequences, leading to long-term impoverishment and inequity.

Addressing the surge in cancer cases require tailored interventions across awareness, screening, detection, prevention, and treatment. Unfortunately, these pillars of cancer care face inadequacies in India, primarily stemming from limited access across different populations and regions. Recognizing this gap in cancer care, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has taken numerous steps to address the challenges effectively and strengthen the infrastructure. The key areas of focus being:

Screening: A Linchpin for Early Detection
In the realm of cancer awareness, screening is paramount for early identification and downstaging, ultimately reducing mortality and morbidity. The National Program for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS) of the Government of India focuses on specific cancers viz. cervical, breast, and oral cancers, but challenges persist in achieving comprehensive coverage. Improving existing services through approved methods and incorporating technological advancements can overcome these challenges, paving the way for a proactive approach in the fight against cancer.

Detection: A Path for Artificial Intelligence
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cancer care is reshaping the healthcare landscape. AI, including Machine Learning and Deep Learning, offers opportunities for early detection, informed decision-making, and care management. Medical devices like those from Niramai and SASCAN utilize high-resolution thermal sensing and machine learning for early detection, providing a radiation-free, non-invasive, low-cost, automated, portable screening solution.

Treatment: An Approach to Multidisciplinary Care
Embarking on a path of treatment through the complexities of cancer necessitates an unwavering commitment to an integrated approach by a healthcare team. Despite the disproportionate distribution of treatment centers across India, leveraging technology is crucial to closing the care gap. Digital capabilities can enhance the treatment journey, maintain quality standards, and boost research efforts, making accessibility and affordability central to the healthcare approach.

On this World Cancer Day, let us unite in our fight against cancer. By emphasizing early screening, we can collectively work towards saving lives and reshaping the narrative of cancer care in India.

This article was first published in ET Healthworld on February 4, 2024