The Rising incidence of cancer cases
By: Ulfat Nazir
Cancer has emerged as one of the most pressing health challenges in Kashmir, with a sharp increase in cases over the last decade. This alarming rise has put immense pressure on the region’s already struggling healthcare system. As cancer continues to claim lives and devastate families, it has become a matter of grave concern for medical professionals, researchers, and policymakers.
While medical advancements have improved cancer treatment worldwide, the situation in Kashmir remains critical due to a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and healthcare-related challenges. The lack of early detection facilities, limited access to advanced treatment, and financial constraints have further compounded the crisis.
The alarming Rise of Cancer Cases in Kashmir
The incidence of cancer in Kashmir has seen a disturbing upward trend in recent years. According to data from the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), thousands of new cancer cases are reported annually, with a significant number of patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Among the most prevalent cancers in the region are:
Oesophageal Cancer: One of the most common cancers in Kashmir, strongly linked to dietary habits.
Lung Cancer – Increasingly reported, particularly among smokers and those exposed to air pollution.
Stomach Cancer – Another leading cancer type, possibly linked to food adulteration and dietary patterns.
Breast Cancer – The most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the region.
Colorectal Cancer – Rising due to lifestyle changes, poor diet, and genetic factors
Studies indicate that cancer cases in Kashmir are rising faster than in many other parts of India. The lack of a well-established cancer registry, however, makes it difficult to obtain precise statistics. Nonetheless, hospital records and patient influx suggest a significant increase in cancer cases over the years.
Factors Contributing to the Cancer Crisis in Kashmir
Several factors are responsible for the rising number of cancer cases in the region. While some are environmental, others are linked to lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition. Understanding these causes is essential to designing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
1.Dietary Habits and Food Contamination
The traditional Kashmiri diet, while rich in flavor, has been linked to a higher risk of certain cancers. Excessive salt intake, preserved meats, and smoked foods are suspected to increase the risk of esophageal and stomach cancers. The consumption of Noon Chai (salt tea), a staple beverage in Kashmiri households, has been associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers.
Moreover, the rampant use of chemical pesticides and food adulteration poses a major health hazard. Fruits and vegetables are often laced with harmful pesticides, while milk and other dairy products are sometimes contaminated with toxic substances. Prolonged exposure to such chemicals is believed to be a major contributing factor to cancer in the valley.
2.Tobacco Use and Smoking
Tobacco consumption remains a leading cause of lung and oral cancers in Kashmir. Many people, including young individuals, are addicted to chewable tobacco (Tumbak) and cigarette smoking. Despite awareness campaigns, tobacco use continues to be alarmingly high, increasing the risk of deadly cancers.
3.Air Pollution and Environmental Factors
Air quality in Kashmir has been deteriorating due to vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and biomass burning. Studies suggest that long-term exposure to air pollutants significantly raises the risk of lung cancer. Indoor air pollution, caused by the burning of wood and charcoal in traditional Kangris (fire pots), also contributes to respiratory ailments and cancer.
4.Genetic and Hereditary Factors
Many types of cancer, including breast and colorectal cancer, have a strong genetic component. In families with a history of cancer, individuals are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Unfortunately, genetic screening is not widely available in Kashmir, leaving many unaware of their susceptibility to inherited cancers.
5.Lack of Awareness and Late Diagnosis
One of the biggest challenges in Kashmir’s fight against cancer is late diagnosis. Many patients do not recognize early symptoms or ignore warning signs due to lack of awareness. By the time they seek medical help, the disease has often progressed to advanced stages, reducing the chances of successful treatment.
Challenges in Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis
Despite the increasing burden of cancer, Kashmir’s healthcare system faces significant challenges in providing effective treatment.
1.Limited Oncology Facilities
While SKIMS and SMHS Hospital in Srinagar provide cancer treatment, there are no specialized cancer hospitals in most districts. This forces patients to travel long distances, often to Delhi or Chandigarh, for advanced treatment.
2.High Cost of Treatment
Cancer treatment is expensive, involving chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Many families, particularly in rural areas, cannot afford the costs, leading to treatment delays or discontinuation.
3.Lack of Screening and Early Detection Programs
In developed countries, cancer survival rates have improved due to early detection. However, in Kashmir, the lack of screening facilities for common cancers means many cases are detected too late.
4.Psychological and Social Stigma
Cancer patients often face mental distress and social isolation. The fear of stigma prevents many from seeking medical help, especially in rural communities. Proper counselling services are urgently needed.
Steps towards Cancer Prevention and Control
While the situation is critical, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the cancer burden in Kashmir:
1.Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure
Establishing specialized oncology centers in multiple districts.
Improving radiotherapy and chemotherapy facilities in government hospitals.
2.Awareness and Early Screening Programs
Conducting regular cancer awareness drives in schools, colleges, and villages.
Encouraging screening camps for breast, cervical, and gastrointestinal cancers.
3.Strict Tobacco Control Measures
Strengthening the enforcement of anti-tobacco laws.
Promoting tobacco cessation programs to help people quit smoking.
4.Encouraging a Healthy Lifestyle
Reducing the consumption of salted and smoked foods.
Promoting organic farming to reduce pesticide exposure.
Encouraging exercise and a balanced diet to lower cancer risk.
5.Financial Assistance and Support for Patients
Expanding government health schemes to cover cancer treatment.
Providing emotional and financial support to families affected by cancer.
(The author has done M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry)
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