World Cancer Day 2026: Timely Detection Can Save Millions of Lives

On the occasion of World Cancer Day (February 4), medical experts at a press conference held at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) stated that tobacco use, smoking, and alcohol consumption are the largest preventable causes of cancer, and quitting them is the most effective way to save lives. Experts emphasized that early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly reduce cancer-related mortality.

The theme of World Cancer Day 2025–2027, “United by Unique”, highlights patient-centered care and underscores that every cancer patient has unique needs requiring individualized treatment.

Early Diagnosis and Multidisciplinary Treatment Improve Outcomes

Prof. (Dr.) Ved Prakash, Head of the Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at KGMU, said that better cancer treatment outcomes depend on timely diagnosis, evidence-based medical care, and seamless coordination among multiple medical specialties.

He stated that the department provides comprehensive lung cancer care supported by advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy, EBUS-guided staging, interventional pulmonology services, and a state-of-the-art respiratory ICU, ensuring uninterrupted care from diagnosis to the management of complications.

What Is Cancer and Why Is It a Growing Challenge?

Cancer is a disease in which a group of normal body cells undergo abnormal changes and begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. If not treated in time, these tumors can invade surrounding healthy tissues or spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic systems.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) under the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Nearly 20 million new cancer cases are diagnosed globally every year

• By 2050, this number is expected to rise to approximately 35 million new cases annually

• Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide

• Around 10 million people die of cancer each year, more than the combined deaths from HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis

• Nearly 70% of cancer-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries

Cancer Situation in India Is Alarming

Experts pointed out that India reports approximately 1.4–1.5 million new cancer cases annually, with 850,000–900,000 deaths each year. Cancer accounts for 9–10% of all deaths in the country.

A major concern is that more than 60% of cancer patients in India are diagnosed at Stage III or IV, which significantly reduces survival rates.

Tobacco use remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in India, resulting in nearly 1.3 million deaths annually, of which about 350,000 deaths are directly linked to cancer.

Major Causes and Symptoms of Cancer

Experts identified key modifiable risk factors for cancer, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, obesity, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, air pollution, and infections such as HPV and hepatitis B and C.

Non-modifiable risk factors include advancing age, genetic predisposition, and weakened immune systems.

Common warning signs of cancer include abnormal lumps or swelling, persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, chronic fatigue, pain, difficulty swallowing, and wounds that do not heal.

Emphasis on Prevention and Treatment

Experts highlighted that:

• More than 40% of cancer deaths are preventable

• Regular screening, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, adopting a healthy diet, and regular physical activity can substantially reduce cancer risk

Cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, stem cell transplantation, rehabilitation, and survivorship care.

On the occasion of World Cancer Day, a press conference was organized to raise awareness about the rising cancer burden, the importance of early detection, and equitable access to treatment. During the event, Padma Shri awardee Prof. (Dr.) Rajendra Prasad was felicitated by the department.

The event was attended by several eminent experts, including Prof. (Dr.) Sameer Gupta, Prof. Shailendra Yadav, and Dr. Seema Gupta, who emphasized the need for cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and multidisciplinary, team-based care.

AIPCON 2026 to Be Hosted at KGMU

It was also announced that the Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at KGMU will host AIPCON 2026 (Advanced Interventional Pulmonology Conference). This prestigious national conference will further reinforce KGMU’s leadership in interventional pulmonology, respiratory medicine, and cancer care.