The majority of lung cancer cases in India are linked to non-smokers, a startling study has revealed. Factors such as genetic susceptibility, hormonal status and rise in poor air quality have been highlighted as the main cause of lung cancer in Indians.
The research was conducted at Mumbai-based Tata Memorial Centre and titled ‘Uniqueness of lung cancer in Southeast Asia’. It has been published in medical journal The Lancet and the findings emphasised that lung cancer in Southeast Asia, particularly in India, stands apart from cases in other regions of the world.
“Lung cancer in Southeast Asia is similar but also very different in myriad aspects from that in the West, as well as other parts of Asia,” the study stated,.
Researchers noted that despite being non-smokers, lung cancer manifests among Indians, ten years earlier as compared to Western countries.
“Lung cancer presents approximately a decade earlier in India as compared to Western countries, with a mean age at diagnosis of 54–70 years,” read the report.
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India and pollution
According to data, India accounted for 72,510 lung cancer cases and 66,279 deaths in 2020. On the whole, lung cancer accounted for the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Southeast Asia with 1.85 million new cases reported.
The study quoted a World Air Quality Report in 2022 and stated that South Asia is home to 37 of the 40 polluted cities across the world. India and its numerous tier-1, tier-and 2 cities, including the capital New Delhi, remain polluted nearly throughout the year – further increasing the risk of cancer among non-smokers.
Exposure to particulate matter PM2.5, asbestos, chromium, cadmium, arsenic and coal as well as passive smoking are the contributing factors.
The study highlighted that only 31.7 per cent of patients in India with Stages I to IIIB lung cancer, underwent curative intent therapy while only 13.4 per cent underwent curative resection.
The research concluded that a “fair amount of work” had been done, “but there is a lot more that can and should be done to ensure that all patients with lung cancer receive the same level of high-quality care, regardless of their geographical location or ethnicity”.
(With inputs from agencies)
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
