‘Lifestyle, not just genetics, driving rising cancer burden in Kashmir’

Srinagar, Apr 28: While genetic predisposition remains beyond human control, a significant proportion of cancers can be prevented through healthier lifestyle choices, a senior doctor said on Tuesday.
Dr Shahid Wani, Head of the Department of Oncology at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, said that although genetics plays a crucial role in the development of certain cancers, lifestyle-related factors are increasingly driving the rising burden of the disease, particularly in Kashmir.
“We cannot do anything about our genetic makeup, but a large share of cancers can be prevented if people adopt healthier lifestyles,” he said, stressing the urgent need for awareness and behavioural change.
Dr Wani highlighted that oesophageal cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers in the region and is likely to remain so in the coming decades. “Even after 10 to 20 years, oesophageal cancer will continue to be among the leading cancers here. One of the reasons is that part of its occurrence is linked to genetic factors, which we cannot alter,” he noted.
However, he warned that changing lifestyle patterns are compounding the problem. “We are moving towards a sedentary way of life. Everything is now done online, and physical activity has drastically reduced. This lack of exercise is a major contributor to various health issues, including cancer,” he said.
The oncologist also pointed to unhealthy dietary habits as a major risk factor. He said that increased consumption of junk food, coupled with low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, is negatively impacting public health.
“A balanced diet is essential, but people are increasingly relying on processed and high-fat foods. At the same time, the consumption of protective foods like fruits and vegetables is inadequate,” he added.
Dr Wani further said that stomach cancer is currently the most prevalent cancer in South Kashmir. “Dietary patterns and smoking are the primary contributors to the high incidence of stomach cancer in this region,” he said, urging people to cut down on tobacco use and adopt healthier eating habits.
Emphasising prevention, he called for a shift towards regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoidance of tobacco and processed foods. “Simple lifestyle modifications can go a long way in reducing the cancer burden. Awareness at the community level is critical,” he added.
With timely intervention, early screening, and sustained public awareness campaigns, a substantial number of cancer cases in the region can be prevented or detected at an early stage, improving survival outcomes, the oncologist said. (KNO)