A concerning 20% increase in cancer cases across Northeast India over the past five years has raised alarms among healthcare professionals. This alarming trend is compounded by a uniquely early onset of tobacco use in the region, with individuals starting as early as 11-14 years old—well before the national average of 18-25 years, as reported by The Sentinel.
Dr. AVS Suresh from MedUnited Hospitals highlighted the critical issue of late-stage diagnoses, stating, “Early detection saves lives, but sadly only 12-18% of cancer patients in the northeast are diagnosed at curable stages. Our screening awareness programs aim to change this reality.”
The region’s cancer burden is particularly dire, with 1 in 4 residents affected by the disease over their lifetime. Men commonly develop esophageal and lung cancers, while women face higher rates of breast and cervical cancers. Tobacco-related cancers account for 50% of male cases and 20% of female cases.
Songbhijit, who leads community outreach initiatives, pointed to cultural factors contributing to the high cancer rates: “Traditional diets high in smoked foods, combined with tobacco and betel nut consumption, create a perfect storm for cancer development.”
The healthcare infrastructure is struggling to meet the growing demand, forcing patients to seek treatment outside the Northeast. The National Cancer Institute-Jhajjar report reveals that 95.3% of cancer patients from Sikkim travel for treatment, while 58.1% from Nagaland do the same.
In response to this growing epidemic, Mahesh Agarwal, philanthropist, and Dr. Ashwin from MedUnited Hospitals, have emphasized the importance of early detection. “We’re attempting to start comprehensive screening across the Northeast,” Dr Ashwin said. “Early detection through regular screening is our best defense against this growing epidemic”.
