Why Are Elderly and Middle-Aged Individuals at Higher Risk of Cancer?

Cancer cases in India are rising, with lifestyle, genetics, and late diagnosis driving the increasing burden.

A recent study led by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed that older and middle-aged adults in India face the highest risk of developing and dying from cancer. Published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia, the study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to combat the escalating cancer burden in the country ().

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The study found that individuals aged 70 and above had the highest risk of cancer, with over 10% likely to develop the disease and 7.7% at risk of dying from it. Meanwhile, middle-aged adults (15-49 years) had an 8.3% risk of developing cancer, with a 5.5% mortality rate.

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ICMR researchers warned that India will face an increasing challenge in managing cancer-related deaths over the next two decades, with cases projected to rise by 2% annually as the population ages. Using data from the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 and the Global Health Observatory (GHO), the team analyzed trends in 36 types of cancer across various age groups and genders over the past 20 years.

Alarmingly, the study revealed that three in every five cancer patients in India are likely to succumb to the disease. The five most common cancers collectively account for 44% of the total cancer burden in the country.

Women in India were found to bear a disproportionate burden, with breast cancer being the most prevalent type, contributing to 13.8% of all new cases. Cervical cancer followed closely at 9.2%.

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Given the increasing incidence, experts stress the need for enhanced screening, early detection, and improved cancer care infrastructure to reduce mortality rates and improve patient outcomes.

Reference:

Unveiling the cancer epidemic in India: a glimpse into GLOBOCAN 2022 and past patterns - (https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/article/PIIS2772-3682(25)00017-4/fulltext)

Source-Medindia

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