Smoking driving surge in lung cancer cases across Kashmir: Director SKIMS

Srinagar, Apr 30: Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Director Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie on Thursday said that the Kashmir Valley—particularly Srinagar—is witnessing one of the highest burdens of lung cancer cases in the country, with smoking emerging as the leading cause.
Speaking during an informal media interaction held alongside the inauguration of upgraded medical infrastructure at SKIMS, Prof. Ganie described the trend as “deeply concerning,” stressing that tobacco consumption remains the most significant contributor to the rising incidence of lung cancer in the region.
He noted that lifestyle-related factors, especially smoking, are driving the surge and require urgent attention at both the policy and community levels.
“While we are strengthening treatment facilities, prevention must now take centre stage,” he said, underlining the need for widespread awareness campaigns to discourage tobacco use and promote healthier lifestyles. “Smoking kills,” he warned.
He emphasized that early detection is critical in improving survival rates, as most lung cancer cases are currently diagnosed at advanced stages.
To tackle the growing cancer burden, SKIMS has intensified efforts to upgrade its oncology services. The institute is enhancing diagnostic and treatment capabilities to ensure that patients can access advanced care within Jammu and Kashmir, reducing dependence on outside referrals.
A key upcoming initiative includes the establishment of a dedicated screening and prevention facility aimed at large-scale early detection of cancers. This centre will focus on identifying high-risk individuals—particularly smokers—and initiating timely interventions. It will also play a crucial role in educating the public about risk factors such as tobacco use and the importance of regular screenings.
Prof. Ganie said that bridging the gap between diagnosis and prevention is essential to reversing current trends. “Systematic screening and preventive strategies can significantly reduce the long-term burden of cancer,” he added.
He said that Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences is set to strengthen its clinical and research capabilities with the addition of advanced equipment across multiple departments, including nephrology, paediatrics, critical care, maternity services, and surgical oncology.
He added that SKIMS will also present key scientific findings at an upcoming Research Dissemination Meet, where experts are expected to highlight data-driven insights on the rising cancer burden in the Valley. The research is aimed at dispelling myths and addressing public concerns surrounding the increasing incidence of cancer, with a focus on evidence-based understanding and early detection strategies.
The Director inaugurated a series of advanced medical facilities across multiple departments at SKIMS, marking a major step toward strengthening patient care.
The upgraded infrastructure—worth over Rs 24 crore—includes high-end equipment for critical care, oncology, surgery, and diagnostics, aimed at improving precision, efficiency, and overall patient outcomes.
He said the upgraded infrastructure aims to enhance patient care, improve diagnostic precision, and support complex treatments at the tertiary care institute. (KNO)