Cervical Cancer Declines Breast and Oral Cancers Rise: ICMR Findings

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India finds itself facing a new period in terms of cancer diagnosis trends. According to the latest research carried out by the Indian Council of Medical Research, there is evidence of increased breast and oral cancers and decreased cervical cancers. As a result, the health trends of India can be viewed in the light of two aspects: the prevalence of breast and oral cancers, and a decrease in cervical cancers. Here, the findings made in the course of the studies conducted by ICMR can be regarded as representative of the situation in India with regard to health.

Why does the prevalence rate of cervical cancer among Indians stay relatively low?

Firstly, it should be stated that cancer of the cervix is the development of abnormal cell multiplication that takes place mainly on its lower part of the female reproductive system. Before, cervical cancer was frequent among Indians, however, now only 4% of Indians get disease annually. This is possible due to some key factors such as better understanding of hygiene, prevention of infection, and screening programs.

In rural areas, small steps help to make changes towards improvements. For example, even improved hygiene can help to reduce the rate of the disease. Through education, women are getting aware of the need for checkups for good health. This indicates that where there is awareness and prevention, even an epidemic can be brought under control.

What makes cases of breast cancer increase?

Cases of breast cancer have increased in India as this disease accounts for the largest number of cancer cases affecting Indian women. The number of cases of breast cancer grows by 1.7% annually because of new trends in Indian society, especially concerning lifestyle. The modern Indian woman tends to marry much later, have less offspring and feed their infants for shorter periods. All these things, in combination with a sedentary lifestyle, eating junk food, and stress, lead to an increase in breast cancer cases.

Delayed diagnosis is yet another problem. Often, women neglect the presence of breast cancer symptoms such as lumps or abnormalities in the breasts because of fear or uncertainty. There is an awareness campaign to make women in urban areas conduct breast self-examination regularly. Nonetheless, in small towns and villages, these activities are unheard of. It becomes apparent that there is a need for efforts towards screening and raising awareness regarding the issue.

Why does oral cancer prevalence increase? And especially in men?

Oral cancer targets the mouth, tongue, and the throat. It is increasing rapidly, especially among men. The leading cause of this type of cancer is consumption of tobacco products. Unlike cigarettes, other forms of smoking are deeply entrenched in social practices. Many young men use these products unknowingly until it becomes too late because the harmful effects develop gradually. Consumption of alcohol also may contribute to development of this disease. As such, oral cancer is among the fast growing cancer cases in India.

According to the ICMR study, oral cancer is increasing among men by 1.2% each year. Most of them are diagnosed after sores and lumps have advanced. It is difficult and costly to treat the disease. The popularity of the mentioned vice explains the reason behind the increase in the cases of oral cancer among men.

What does this imply about India?

The decrease in the number of women who have cervical cancer means that there will be positive changes, that means that with time, the measures that include increased awareness and vaccinations for the disease will be effective. Nevertheless, the rise in cases of breast and mouth cancer is an issue that needs to be tackled in addition to the previous disease. Thus, the nation will have to balance between keeping preventive measures and addressing the rising problem with the other two diseases.

What steps should a regular Indian take in order to remain healthy?

Concerning the first disease, regular testing and vaccination are considered the best preventive measures. In connection with the second one, a monthly examination should be performed. When discussing the third type of cancer, smoking cessation is advised. 

Educating the masses through student groups, workmates, and villages can do much to ensure that people understand the danger that lurks around. Having adequate knowledge about recognizing the warning signs and prevention, one can stay safe from cancer.

Is India prepared for this development?

The Indian health care system faces a tough situation with regards to cancer care. While the cities have sophisticated hospitals, the countryside does not even have basic facilities to screen cancer patients. As seen from the ICMR report, India cannot implement blanket preventive policies. Differences in behavioral patterns and availability of healthcare across the nation require targeted measures.

For instance, states where people chew tobacco will require stringent application of tobacco-related policies. Breast cancer, which is increasing in cities, calls for organized screening programs. India has the responsibility to ensure that there is no offsetting negative change in any other form of cancer if any positive change occurs in another sector.

What can we learn from such a pattern?

From the trend of cancer prevalence in India, one can learn that health status is affected by advancements as well as habits of people. The reduction in cervical cancer cases shows that prevention is having some impact. But, an increase in the number of breast and mouth cancer cases shows how lifestyles have changed.

India needs to reconsider its approach to fighting cancer. The country requires awareness programs that do not require much effort for people to understand them. In addition, screening should be easy and affordable even for rural populations. Also, harmful habits such as tobacco chewing should be regulated.

Conclusion

The ICMR results show that there is a split in India’s cancer trend. Cervical cancer is declining due to effective awareness programs while breast and oral cancers have increased because of the lifestyle and habits of Indian individuals.

It is not only a matter of medicine but a social problem as well, because people’s decisions in life influence their health through the food they eat and the tobacco they smoke. While the reduction in the prevalence of cervical cancer shows that improvement is possible, an increase in breast and mouth cancer cases indicates that it might be difficult to overcome this challenge.

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