New Delhi: Cancer is the leading cause of death across the world. The number of cancer cases has risen rapidly in the last few years. A recent study conducted by the Cancer Mukht Bharat has revealed that around 20 per cent of the cancer patients in Delhi and other cities in India are below the age of 40 years. Out of these, 60 per cent are male and the rest 40 per cent are female. The data is quite concerning as this indicates the rise of disease among the younger generation.
The study was conducted among 1,368 patients in India who called the foundation’s cancer helpline number from March 1 to May 15.
Cancer cases rise state-wise
In India, the number of calls from cancer patients received from Hyderabad (145), followed by Meerut (96), Mumbai (76), and New Delhi (74), the study noted. While in the United States, the American Cancer Society has also reported that the demographics of cancer patients have shifted from the older to middle-aged people.
Under the Cancer Mukt Campaign, a free-of-cost national cancer helpline number, 93-555-20202, was launched recently. The number is operational from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday. Patients can now call this number to consult with India’s leading oncologists to discuss their treatment without paying any fees.
Neck and head cancer are the most common ones
According to the study, the most common cancers reported in people were head and neck cancer, accounting for 26 per cent of patients. Following this, gastrointestinal cancers at 16 per cent, breast cancer at 15 per cent, and then blood cancers at 9 per cent, as per the Globocan national data for India.
On the other hand, the study also noted that 27 per cent of cases diagnosed were in stages I and II of cancers and 63 per cent of the cases were in stages III or IV. As per the report, most of the patients who contacted the helpline number wanted to seek a second opinion from the doctors. They wanted to confirm whether their treatment was correct or not. They seek up-to-date checkup options and want to know about the latest treatments or medicines for their respective cancers.
Out of these, 60 per cent are male and the rest 40 per cent are female. The data is quite concerning as this indicates the rise of disease among the younger generation. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
