Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Feb 4: On the occasion of World Cancer Day, leading oncologists in Jammu and Kashmir have raised serious concern over the steadily increasing incidence of cancer in the Union Territory, while underlining the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and strengthening advanced treatment infrastructure.
Dr Zahoor Ahmad, a senior oncologist at SKIMS Soura, said cancer cases are rising at an alarming pace across J&K.
“Cancer is rapidly increasing in Jammu and Kashmir. On average, we are witnessing around 35 to 38 new cancer cases every single day across the UT, and this number is likely to grow further in the coming years,” he said.
Dr Zahoor added that the Valley currently has cancer treatment facilities in major government tertiary care hospitals and a few private institutions. “Most of the required treatment modalities are available within J&K. Only a few highly advanced technologies like Proton Radiotherapy are not available here, which are limited to very few centres in the entire country,” he said.
Sharing insights into the regional cancer profile, Dr Manzoor, Head of the Department of Radiation Oncology at GMC Srinagar, said the cancer trend in Kashmir broadly matches national and global patterns, but with some regional differences. “The overall cancer burden here is similar to what is seen across India and the world. However, due to our unique geographical and lifestyle factors, the spectrum of cancers in Kashmir is slightly different,” he explained.
According to him, gastrointestinal cancers, particularly of the oesophagus and stomach, are more common in the region, along with a high incidence of breast and lung cancers. “This makes it extremely important to focus not just on treatment but on large-scale screening and prevention strategies, especially for gastrointestinal cancers,” Dr Manzoor said.
He called for an integrated cancer screening and early detection system across J&K. “We require mass screening programs, early diagnostic facilities and widespread public awareness so cancers can be detected at an early stage, where cure is possible. The government must take concrete steps to establish these programs at the community level,” he added.
While appreciating the availability of most cancer treatment options in the UT, Dr Manzoor said that cancer care is evolving rapidly with new technologies emerging every year. “One of the most modern radiotherapy technologies today is Proton Beam Therapy, which causes less damage to surrounding healthy tissues and improves treatment outcomes. Currently, it is available only at three centres in India, with a few more in the pipeline,” he said. “J&K should also be included among the regions where this advanced facility is established in the future.”
Noted oncologist Dr Ashraf Ashia highlighted the growing role of preventive oncology in reducing cancer risk. “Most established cancer treatment modalities are already available in our UT. However, the future lies equally in prevention,” he said.
He said that vaccines, such as those against HPV, are playing a major role in preventing certain cancers, while lifestyle modifications are becoming increasingly important. “Alongside this, genetics-based therapies and biotherapy are also emerging as strong tools in modern cancer treatment,” Dr Ashraf added.
Doctors stressed that while improving hospital infrastructure is crucial, public participation through healthier lifestyles, regular health check-ups, and awareness about early symptoms can significantly reduce cancer-related deaths.
They urged authorities to strengthen screening programs, expand awareness campaigns in rural and urban areas alike, and invest in modern medical technologies to ensure comprehensive cancer care for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
