Cancer is emerging as one of the most significant public health challenges in India. Research conducted by the Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR) has highlighted the growing vulnerability of the Indian population to various forms of cancer, largely driven by changing lifestyles, environmental factors, and increasing life expectancy. According to the study, nearly 70 million Indians may be vulnerable to some form of cancer, placing a substantial burden on the country's healthcare system. Cancer-related mortality in India remains significantly higher than in many developed nations, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger preventive and treatment strategies.
One of the greatest concerns is the economic burden of cancer care. The average cost of treatment ranges between ₹3–4 lakh, which exceeds the annual income of a large proportion of Indian households. This makes…
