Mizoram Reports Highest Cancer Incidence Rate in India despite Low Population

• 01 Nov 2023

According to a recent study, Mizoram, the second least populated state in India, has witnessed the country's highest incidence rate of cancer.

Key Points

• Alarming Cancer Rates: Mizoram, with its low population, records the highest cancer incidence rate in India.
• An 18-year trend study highlights a consistent increase in cancer incidence and mortality in the state.
• Stomach Cancer Leading Among Men: Stomach cancer has emerged as the primary cause of cancer-related deaths among men in Mizoram.
• Lung cancer is a significant contributor to cancer-related deaths among women in the state.
• Youth Affected: The study reveals that cancer incidence and mortality are also increasing among the younger generation in Mizoram.
• The rising cancer rates in youth may be linked to sedentary lifestyles, dietary patterns, and a genetic predisposition in the endogamous tribal population.
• Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment: The escalation in mortality rates could be due to a lack of specialized diagnostic facilities and skilled human resources.
• Treatment strategies guided by genomic research and transportation challenges also impact cancer outcomes.
• Cancer Trends in Mizoram: Among men, stomach cancer is the most prevalent, followed by head and neck, lung, colorectal, and other types.
• Among women, lung cancer exhibits the highest incidence, followed by cervical, breast, and other types.