India declared ‘Cancer Capital of the World’ as country sees fastest rise in cases

• Apollo Hospitals' report shows alarming increase: 1 in 3 pre-diabetic, 2 in 3 pre-hypertensive, 1 in 10 with depression
• India dubbed "cancer capital" due to rising cancer cases, highlighting urgent need for awareness and screenings
• Despite early cancer diagnosis, low screening rates persist, underlining necessity for enhanced preventive healthcare

A recent health report released on Friday shows that there's a worrying increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across India, especially cancer cases. The 4th edition of the Health of Nation Report by Apollo Hospitals, which came out on World Health Day 2024, shares some concerning numbers: about one in three Indians are pre-diabetic, two in three are pre-hypertensive, and one in 10 are dealing with depression.

This report highlights how NCDs like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, heart diseases, and mental health issues are becoming more common in India. The rise in cancer cases is particularly alarming, leading to India being called the "cancer capital of the world" because its rates are higher than global averages. The report also warns that more people, especially younger ones, are at risk of health issues like pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension, and mental health disorders. It emphasizes the importance of regular health check-ups to manage conditions like high blood pressure (BP) and body weight, which can help prevent heart problems.

In India, breast, cervix, and ovary cancers are most common among women, while lung, mouth, and prostate cancers affect men the most. Despite cancer being diagnosed at a younger age in India compared to other countries, not enough people are getting screened for it, as the hospital's statement pointed out.