Why Cancer Cases Are Increasing in India and How You Can Avoid Them

Cancer has become an increasingly pressing concern in India, ranking as one of the leading causes of illness and death. While tobacco and gutkha usage remain major contributors, cases of cancer among non-tobacco and non-gutkha users have also risen significantly in recent years. Factors such as lifestyle shifts, environmental hazards, and unhealthy dietary practices are fueling this alarming trend. Despite advancements in healthcare, the prevalence of cancer continues to grow, underscoring the importance of awareness and proactive prevention. In this blog, we delve into the factors driving the surge in cancer cases, spotlight hidden risks in our daily routines, and share practical strategies to mitigate these risks.

Understanding the Alarming Rise of Cancer in India

Cancer is not just a health issue; it’s a societal concern influenced by urbanization, industrialization, and lifestyle shifts. Factors such as increased life expectancy, sedentary habits, unhealthy diets, and environmental pollution all play significant roles. However, several less-discussed contributors deserve attention, particularly those related to our food and packaging habits.

Cancer Statistics and Prevalence in India

Cancer cases in India are increasing at an alarming rate, with lifestyle and environmental factors playing significant roles. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme Report (ICMR-NCDIR 2020), the number of cancer cases in India was estimated at 1.39 million in 2020, and this figure is expected to rise further due to population growth and aging​ (National Tobacco Control Programme) (NC DIR India)

Tobacco-Related Cancers

Tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer in India, responsible for about 27% of all cancer cases. The most common cancers caused by tobacco are:

• Oral Cancer: India accounts for 30% of the global burden of oral cancer cases. Chewing tobacco products like gutkha, zarda, and khaini is a significant contributor.

• Lung Cancer: Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer, prevalent among both men and women​ National Tobacco Control Programme NC DIR india

  
  

Non-Tobacco-Related Cancers

Non-tobacco users are increasingly diagnosed with cancers linked to lifestyle and environmental exposures, including:

• Breast Cancer: It is the most common cancer among Indian women.

• Cervical Cancer: Despite being preventable, it remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women.

• Colorectal Cancer: Increasingly observed in younger individuals, partly due to dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles​. National Tobacco Control Programme NC DIR india

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Hidden Culprits Behind Cancer in India

1. Food Colors and Additives

   Artificial food colors and additives, commonly used to enhance the appearance and taste of food, pose significant health risks.

   Many of these chemicals are carcinogenic. For example:

   • Synthetic Dyes: Synthetic dyes, often used in sweets, snacks, and beverages like fruit juices, cold drinks, and sodas, are also extensively added to restaurant foods such as tandoori dishes, Biryani, and gravies to enhance their appearance. These dyes are not just visually deceptive but can also be harmful to health. Studies indicate that synthetic food colors can cause DNA damage and have been linked to an increased risk of cancers, particularly of the liver and kidneys.

   • Preservatives: While prolonging shelf life, some preservatives, like nitrates and nitrites in processed meat, can convert into cancer-causing nitrosamines in the body.

     
     

   What to Do: Choose natural or minimally processed foods. Read labels carefully to avoid items with artificial additives.

   
   

2. Plastic Containers and Food Packaging

   Plastics, widely used for storing and heating food, leach harmful chemicals when exposed to heat. Common offenders include:

   • Bisphenol A (BPA): Found in polycarbonate plastics, BPA can mimic estrogen and disrupt hormonal balance, increasing the risk of breast and prostate cancers.

   • Phthalates: Used in flexible plastics, these chemicals can migrate into food, particularly when heated, and are linked to reproductive cancers.

     
     

   What to Do: Avoid heating food in plastic containers. Switch to glass, stainless steel, or ceramic for storage and reheating.

   
   

3. Thermocol and Polythene Bags for Hot Food and Beverages

   Thermocol and polythene bags, often used to carry hot tea, coffee, or food, release toxic substances when exposed to high temperatures. These substances can contaminate food and beverages.

   • Styrene and Benzene: Released from thermocol, these are known carcinogens that can affect the central nervous system and cause cancers.

   • Plasticizers in Polythene: Leach into hot food, adding toxic chemicals directly to your meal.

     
     

   What to Do: Use reusable and heat-safe containers. Opt for stainless steel thermoses or clay cups for tea and coffee.

   
   

4. Plastic-Laminated Paper CupsSeemingly harmless paper cups with a thin plastic lining are a silent threat. When exposed to hot liquids, the plastic layer can release microplastics and harmful chemicals, such as polyethylene, into beverages. Prolonged exposure to these substances increases the risk of gastrointestinal and hormonal cancers.

   
   

   What to Do: Choose biodegradable or plant-based cups, or better yet, carry your reusable cup.

   
   

5. Dietary Habits and Processed FoodsModern diets rich in processed and packaged foods are another significant contributor to cancer. These foods often contain:

   • Trans Fats: Found in fried snacks and baked goods, trans fats promote inflammation, increasing the risk of colorectal and pancreatic cancers.

   • Refined Sugar: Fuels cancer cell growth and contributes to obesity, a major risk factor for various cancers.

     
     

   What to Do: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Minimize intake of sugary drinks, processed snacks, and fast foods.

   
   

6. Pesticides and Chemical Residues

   Fruits, vegetables, and grains in India often contain high levels of pesticide residues. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals is linked to cancers of the skin, lung, and prostate.

   
   

   What to Do:

   • Wash produce thoroughly with water and baking soda.

   • Opt for organic produce when possible.

   • Peel fruits and vegetables prone to pesticide retention, like apples and potatoes.

     
     
     
     

7. Recurrent injuries or chronic mechanical irritation

   Recurrent injuries or chronic mechanical irritation, such as sharp teeth causing repeated injuries inside the mouth, are recognized as potential risk factors for oral cancer. Persistent irritation can lead to inflammation and DNA damage, disrupting normal tissue repair processes. This environment promotes oxidative stress and can initiate genetic and epigenetic changes that increase the likelihood of cancer development, particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma.

   
   

   What to Do:

   • Recognizing and addressing such issues promptly—such as smoothing sharp teeth or seeking medical attention for persistent sores—is crucial in preventing complications and lowering cancer risks.

     
     

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Beyond food and packaging, other significant factors contribute to the rising cancer rates in India:

1. Air Pollution: Toxic air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5), benzene, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are carcinogenic and increase the risk of lung cancer.

2. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to obesity, which is a major risk factor for several cancers, including breast and colon cancer.

3. Tobacco and Alcohol Use: Tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, is the leading cause of preventable cancers in India, such as oral and lung cancers. Alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver and breast cancers.

4. Late Detection: A significant number of cancer cases in India are diagnosed at advanced stages due to lack of awareness and screening, reducing the chances of effective treatment.

   
   

How to Escape the Rising Cancer Epidemic

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, adopting proactive measures can significantly reduce your chances of developing cancer. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Adopt a Healthy Diet

   • Include more antioxidant-rich foods like berries, green tea, and dark leafy greens.

   • Incorporate anti-inflammatory spices such as turmeric and ginger.

   • Eat fiber-rich foods like legumes, oats, and flaxseeds to promote gut health and prevent colon cancer.

2. Avoid Harmful Packaging

   • Replace plastic containers with eco-friendly alternatives like glass or stainless steel.

   • Refuse thermocol plates and cups at social events and opt for reusable options.

3. Stay Physically Active

   • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week.

   • Include strength training exercises to maintain a healthy weight and build muscle.

4. Regular Health Screenings

   • Get routine check-ups and cancer screenings appropriate for your age and risk factors.

   • Women should prioritize mammograms and Pap smears, while men should consider prostate screenings.

5. Practice Mindful Habits

   • Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.

   • Reduce exposure to air pollution by wearing masks and using air purifiers indoors.

6. Promote Awareness

   • Educate your family and community about the risks associated with plastics, artificial food colors, and pesticides.

   • Advocate for safer food practices and stricter regulations on harmful materials.

     
     

Through our health awareness programs, we aim to educate individuals about cancer prevention and encourage lifestyle changes that prioritize long-term well-being. Together, we can make conscious choices that protect our health and the health of future generations.

Conclusion

The rising cancer rates in India are a wake-up call to reevaluate our daily habits and choices. By avoiding carcinogenic substances, adopting a nutritious diet, and practicing a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly reduce your cancer risk. It’s time to shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention.

At Zocofit, we believe that small, consistent changes in everyday life can lead to profound health benefits. Together, let’s take a stand against cancer, one step at a time.