Rising global cancer burden
Global Cancer Burden and Rising Risks by 2050: By 2050, cancer deaths are projected to exceed 18 million, according to the Global Burden of Disease Cancer Collaborators. The number of new cancer diagnoses worldwide is estimated to reach 30.5 million, reflecting a sharp increase from current levels. This rise is expected to be more severe in low-income and middle-income countries compared to developed nations.
Key risk factors
At least 42% of global cancer deaths in 2023 were linked to 44 modifiable risk factors. These include tobacco use, unhealthy diets, high blood sugar, and alcohol consumption. The findings highlight a major opportunity for prevention through lifestyle interventions and stronger health policies.
Static GK fact: Tobacco consumption is the leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, responsible for over 8 million deaths annually.
Deadliest cancers worldwide
The leading causes of cancer deaths globally are lung cancer, breast cancer, stomach cancer, prostate cancer, and cervical cancer. Among these, lung cancer continues to dominate due to widespread smoking and environmental pollution.
Static GK fact: The first cancer registry in India was set up in 1964 in Mumbai (Bombay).
India’s cancer scenario
India ranks 168th out of 204 countries in cancer death rates. The two major contributors are breast cancer and lung cancer. Rising obesity, changes in diet, and increased exposure to occupational and environmental risks have worsened the situation.
Cultural and lifestyle influences in India
India faces unique cancer triggers due to cultural practices. Betel nut and pan consumption has led to high oral cancer rates. Drinking very hot beverages increases the risk of oesophageal cancer. Tobacco in the form of cigarettes, bidis, and chewing tobacco continues to fuel oral and lung cancers.
Static GK Tip: India is the second largest consumer of tobacco in the world after China.
Preventive initiatives in India
The National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) under ICMR supports data-driven cancer policies. The Union Budget 2025-26 announced Day Care Cancer Centres in every district hospital within three years. The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), functioning under the National Health Mission (NHM), strengthens screening and treatment.
Other notable initiatives include NexCAR19 therapy, National Cancer Grid (NCG), and the Quad Cancer Moonshot, which promote advanced therapies, collaboration, and international partnerships.
Outlook ahead
The projected rise in cancer deaths highlights the urgency of scaling up preventive measures, early screening, and affordable treatment. For India, tackling tobacco use, dietary risks, and environmental exposures will be crucial to reduce the growing cancer burden by 2050.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Global Cancer Burden and Rising Risks by 2050:
| Topic | Detail |
| Projected global cancer deaths by 2050 | Over 18 million |
| Projected new cancer cases by 2050 | 30.5 million |
| Modifiable risk factors contribution (2023) | 42% of global deaths |
| Deadliest cancers globally | Lung, Breast, Stomach, Prostate, Cervical |
| India’s cancer death rank | 168 out of 204 countries |
| Major cancers in India | Breast cancer, Lung cancer |
| Key lifestyle risks in India | Tobacco, Betel nut, Hot beverages, Obesity |
| NCRP | National Cancer Registry Programme under ICMR |
| NPCDCS | National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke |
| Union Budget 2025-26 provision | Day Care Cancer Centres in all district hospitals |
