Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Nov 17: Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu has registered 9,427 cancer cases over the last five years (2020–2024), revealing a worrying rise in cancer incidence across the region.
The data paints a concerning picture, particularly about late-stage diagnoses and the prevalence of certain cancers in specific demographics.
Of the total 9,427 cases reported at GMC Jammu, 3,671 patients were from Jammu district, the highest among all districts; 943 hailed from Udhampur, 855 from Kathua, 694 from Doda,580 from Samba, 532 from Reasi, 424 from Poonch, 292 from Kishtwar, 222 from Ramban and 539 belonged to other regions.
Of the total patients, 5,351 were males while 4,076 were females, indicating a higher burden among men.
According to the data, lung cancer is the most prevalent cancer reported at GMC Jammu, followed by: Head and neck cancers, Breast cancer, hepatobiliary cancers, genito-urinary cancers, oesophageal cancers, oral cancers, cervical cancers and intestinal cancers.
Gender-wise trends show a clear difference in cancer patterns, as among men, the most common cancers are: lung, head and neck, genito-urinary, oral and haematological cancers and among women, the leading cancers include breast, cervix, hepatobiliary, ovarian and lung cancer
The data raises significant concern regarding late detection. Of all diagnosed cases, 7% were detected at Stage 1, 21% at Stage 2, 29% at Stage 3 and a staggering 43% at Stage 4.
Doctors say this trend highlights the urgent need for increased screening, awareness, and timely medical intervention, as late-stage cancers are often more difficult to treat and result in poorer outcomes.
Health experts believe that the rising number of cases, along with the high percentage of late-stage diagnoses, underscores the need for strengthening preventive measures, early diagnosis, and better healthcare accessibility across the Jammu division.
They also emphasise lifestyle factors, such as tobacco use, air pollution, poor diet, and lack of regular screenings, that significantly contribute to rising cancer numbers.
