Why cancer diagnosis is often late in India, read details about the challenges and solutions
Discover the reasons behind delayed cancer diagnosis in India and explore potential solutions to improve timely detection and treatment."
At present, India is battling an increasingly common cancer burden; the number has reached 14.6 lakh cases in 2022 and is predicted to rise further up to 15.7 lakh by 2025, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Cancer Registry Programme. Late diagnosis and treatment that often follow cancer add to this disturbing trend and lead to higher death rates.The same year 2022 reported more than 9 lakh cancer deaths in India.
A recent analysis in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia unraveled the delayed initiation of the treatment. Analysis of hospital and cancer registry information revealed that the delay to treatment from diagnosis was a jaw-dropping median of 90 days, that is, very much beyond 30 days indicated by the government. Lack of awareness, low access to good healthcare facilities and financial constraints showed up as being the most essential factors for these delays.
Such late diagnoses have severe consequences; delays lead to the progression of the disease and bring complications, increased cost of treatment, and poor health outcome. The government, healthcare providers, and civil society organizations need to come together to raise public awareness about cancer, improve quality access to care, and mitigate the financial burden of cancer care.
A heavy burden of growing cancer demands prompt attention. Through these, improved delay between diagnosis and start of treatment in the Indian context is crucial. In total, we would reduce the negative impacts of the disease on individual, family, and community level to open pathways to a better future.
