World Cancer Day: What contributes to huge number of cancer deaths in India?

4th February every year is observed as the World Cancer Day. Cancer is the second deadliest disease in the world. More than 11 lakh people are diagnosed with cancer every year in India. Currently in India alone 25 lakh people are living with it.

There are more than 100 different types of cancer but the common ones are breast, lung, skin and oral cancer.

What is the reason for the huge number of cancer deaths?

1. Improper diet and an unhealthy lifestyle are the major causes of cancer.
2. High body mass index, low fruit, and vegetable intake and lack of physical activity are also leading behavioral risks causing cancer.
3. Tobacco use contributes to 22% of cancer deaths.

Abnormal cancer cell growth can happen due to external factors and also through inherited genetic factors. The WHO (World Health Organisation) says that approximately 70% of deaths from cancer happen in low and middle-class families.

It has also mentioned by WHO that 1/3rd of common cancers are curable.

Many Indian celebrities have fought and defeated cancer, the names include Yuvraj Singh, Sonali Bendre, Lisa Ray, and Manisha Koirala.

This year's theme for world cancer day is "I am and I will".

This theme highlights the value of every individual to fight against cancer, it also emphasizes that all of us can fight against cancer. Healthy changes in lifestyle and diet can help in reducing the overall risk of cancer.