Pune: Previously, cancer was more prevalent in men due to habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption. However, in recent years, the gender gap in cancer cases has been narrowing, with some cancers now being reported at higher rates in women. Cases of breast, lung, cervical, liver, and thyroid cancer in women are surging because of lifestyle choices, and reproductive and environmental factors. While the increasing incidence is concerning, early detection, timely treatment, and preventive healthcare measures can improve survival rates and quality of life.
The report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), published in The Lancet, has found that there has been a surge in cancer incidence, more in women than men, in the past decade, and this trend will continue to rise in the coming two decades. The data also showed that even though women are most affected by breast cancer, lung cancer causes the most deaths in both genders. The study also predicted that the mortality rates are expected to rise from 64.7 to 109.6 between 2022 and 2050.
Cancer cases among women are increasing at a rapid pace, making it essential to raise awareness about symptoms, dispel myths and taboos, and encourage timely intervention. “Over the years, there has been a steady rise in cancer cases among women aged 35-65, with breast, thyroid, lung, and cervical cancers becoming more common. Breast cancer cases are alarmingly spiking in women and demanding urgent attention. According to (2023-2025) data from Onco Life Cancer Centre, Talegaon, no cases of breast cancer were reported in the 20-30 age groups. In the 30-40 age group, 15.9% of cases were detected, while 27.0% of women aged 40-50 were diagnosed with this cancer. The highest occurrence was seen in the 50-60 age groups, with 28.6% of women affected. Meanwhile, 14.3% of women aged 60-70 were diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Dr Gaurav Jaswal, Sr. Consultant, Radiation Oncologist, TGH Oncolife Cancer Centre, Talegaon, Pune.
Several factors contribute to this surge, including obesity, sedentary lifestyles, alcohol consumption, and dietary habits by cutting down ultra-processed foods. Reproductive factors such as delayed childbirth, reduced breastfeeding, and prolonged exposure to stress are influencing cancer rates. While the numbers are increasing, what is encouraging is that awareness is slowly improving, even in rural areas. However, there are still many fears, taboos, and myths surrounding cancers, particularly breast and gynecological cancers.
Dr Gaurav Jaswal added, “The key to improving survival and quality of life is early detection. Any cancer that is diagnosed and treated on time significantly increases survival chances. The five-year survival rate for localized lung cancer is 61%, but it drops to just 7% when the cancer has spread to distant organs. Similarly, Breast cancer diagnosed at Stage I has a five-year survival rate of over 90%, compared to less than 30% for Stage IV. A delay in cancer treatment (surgery, radiotherapy, or systemic therapy) increases the risk of mortality. Early-stage cancers often require less aggressive treatments, reducing side effects and improving quality of life. With robust screening programs (for breast and cervical cancers), survival rates have improved significantly. Timely treatment is saving lives and reducing the physical and emotional toll of cancer treatments.”
To prevent cancer, women should eat a well-balanced diet, exercise daily, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, avoiding tobacco, and other carcinogens as much as possible. “Regular screenings can identify potential health problems early when they are easier to treat. This includes screenings for breast, cervical, and colon cancers, as well as checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Regular human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations can prevent cervical cancer. Schedule regular check-ups, stay informed about vaccines, and prioritize your health,” highlighted Dr Gaurav Jaswal.
“The surging cases of breast, lung, cervical, liver, and thyroid cancer in women can be linked to factors such as lifestyle changes, hormonal imbalances, genetics, family history, smoking, obesity, and viral infections like HPV and hepatitis. Cancer cases have increased in women by 20% compared to last year. Screenings such as mammograms, breast self-examination, and Pap smear, a healthy diet, vaccination (for HPV and hepatitis B), avoiding tobacco, and alcohol, and maintaining an active lifestyle can reduce the cancer burden and allow early detection, concluded by” Dr. Aditi Ambekar Consultant Gynaecologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Child, Pune.
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