World Cancer Day 2026 was observed across India on Tuesday, prompting renewed appeals from healthcare experts and policymakers to prioritise early cancer detection and significantly upgrade the country’s cancer care infrastructure, as projections indicate a sharp rise in cases over the coming decades.
Health specialists from the Indian Cancer Society (ICS) warned that India could witness a nearly 67 per cent increase in annual cancer cases by 2045. Current estimates suggest that yearly diagnoses may climb from approximately 1.5 million to close to 2.5 million, placing additional strain on an already stretched healthcare system.
Experts stressed that early diagnosis, routine screening, and widespread public awareness remain the most effective tools for reducing cancer-related deaths and lowering long-term treatment costs. Emphasising prevention-led strategies, Dr. Jyotsna Govil, Chairperson of the Indian Cancer Society, noted that timely identification of cancer can substantially improve survival rates and treatment outcomes.
Oncologists and public health officials also highlighted ongoing challenges, including unequal access to quality care across regions, financial constraints faced by patients, and limitations in health data collection and monitoring. Addressing these gaps, they said, is essential to ensure fair and comprehensive cancer care for all sections of the population.
As part of World Cancer Day initiatives, health organisations across the country have intensified screening programmes and digital awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities about early symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of prompt medical attention. Authorities are also working towards integrating cancer screening into primary healthcare services and strengthening collaboration between government agencies and civil society organisations.
This year’s observance comes against the backdrop of broader public health challenges in India, including the growing burden of chronic diseases and the spread of health-related misinformation, underscoring the need for sustained, coordinated action in the country’s healthcare strategy.
