Gujarat Records Steady Rise in Lung Cancer Cases

The institute cited the GLOBOCAN 2022 report, which estimates that India records more than 1.12 lakh new lung cancer cases and over 98,000 deaths every year.

Globally, lung cancer accounts for around 26 lakh new cases and more than 18 lakh deaths annually, making it the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

Health experts said tobacco use remains the principal risk factor for lung cancer, including smoking bidis, cigarettes and other tobacco products. Other contributors include passive smoking, air pollution and prolonged exposure to hazardous industrial substances such as asbestos.

Doctors advised people not to ignore symptoms, including a persistent cough, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, chest pain, changes in voice or unexplained weight loss.

Individuals experiencing such symptoms have been urged to seek medical evaluation without delay, as early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Established in 1972, the Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute offers specialised treatment for lung cancer using advanced medical technology.

The institute is equipped with robotic surgery, PET-CT, 3 Tesla MRI, 128-slice CT scan, bronchoscopy, and advanced radiation therapies, including CyberKnife, TrueBeam, and TomoTherapy.

Chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are also available free of cost or at subsidised rates under government schemes such as PMJAY-MA.

Marking World Lung Cancer Day, GCRI appealed to the public to adopt healthier lifestyles by quitting tobacco, undergoing timely screening and seeking medical attention at the earliest sign of symptoms.

The institute said that although lung cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because its early symptoms can be mild or non-specific, greater awareness, tobacco cessation and prompt diagnosis can improve survival and help save lives.