0
0
Kerala is facing a mounting cancer crisis, with incidence and mortality rates now significantly exceeding the national average, according to recent studies and government data. The state, long recognized for its advanced healthcare indicators, is witnessing a sharp rise in both new cancer cases and deaths, prompting urgent calls for enhanced prevention, early detection, and public awareness.
Sharp Increase in Cancer Cases
Recent figures presented at the Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025 reveal that the state now reports an average of 88,460 new cancer cases annually—43,110 among males and 45,350 among females. This accounts for nearly 5.7% of India’s total cancer burden, despite Kerala’s comparatively smaller population. Projections indicate these numbers will rise further by 2030.
Data from the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram shows a 36% increase in new cases over just three years, climbing from 11,191 in 2020-21 to 15,324 in 2022-23. The Malabar Cancer Centre and the Cochin Cancer Research Centre have also reported thousands of new cases annually, highlighting a statewide trend.
Cancer Types and Gender Disparities
The pattern of cancer prevalence in Kerala reveals stark gender-based differences:
-
Men: The most common cancers are lung (14%), oral cavity (10%), colorectal (10%), prostate (9%), and liver (8%).
-
Women: Breast cancer dominates at a striking 34%, followed by thyroid (11%), colorectal (9%), uterine (6%), and ovarian (4%).
Mortality Rates Far Above National Average
Kerala’s cancer mortality rates are particularly alarming. In 2024, the crude mortality rate for lung cancer among men was 28.9%, compared to the national average of 7.8%. For breast cancer in women, mortality reached 37.5%, far exceeding the national average of 14.9%. Experts attribute these high rates to late-stage diagnosis and lifestyle factors.
Underlying Causes and Risk Factors
Public health officials point to lifestyle changes, increased consumption of alcohol and tobacco, unhealthy diets, sedentary habits, and high stress levels as major contributors to Kerala’s cancer burden1. Despite a high Human Development Index, these risk factors have driven up both the incidence and mortality of non-communicable diseases, including cancer.
Government Response and Public Health Initiatives
In response to the crisis, Kerala’s health department has launched several initiatives:
-
Preventive oncology clinics are being established in all districts, starting with gynaecology departments, to promote early detection.
-
A population-based screening program has already referred over 900,000 people for cancer screening, focusing on oral, breast, and cervical cancers.
-
The state government has begun a 12-month cancer awareness campaign to encourage earlier diagnosis and reduce stigma, as many patients currently seek care only in advanced stages.
Health Minister Veena George emphasized the importance of early detection, noting that only 1.5 lakh of the nine lakh people identified as at risk have agreed to screening so far. She urged the public to overcome fear and stigma, highlighting that early intervention can save lives.
“We have more than 62,000 cancer cases getting reported every year. Only during 3rd and 4th stages are people coming to the hospital and identifying disease. Our question is, why do you wait for so long?” — Veena George, Kerala Health Minister
A Call for Urgent Action
Experts stress that Kerala’s rising cancer rates mirror global trends but are exacerbated by local lifestyle and demographic factors. They recommend reducing tobacco and alcohol use, improving diet, increasing physical activity, and prioritizing regular screenings as key strategies to curb the state’s cancer epidemic.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent studies, government reports, and statements from public health officials. Data and projections are subject to change as new information emerges. Readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals for personal medical advice and to participate in recommended screening programs for early detection and prevention.
