Question : INCIDENCE OF CANCER



(a) whether according to a report of the Indian Council of Medical Research, the incidence of cancer is rising in the country;

(b) if so, the number of cancer cases in the country at present; and

(c) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

Answer given by the minister

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI A. RAJA)

(a) Time trend analysis of the data from population-based cancer registries over the last decade shows a small but significant increase in the overall incidence of cancer in all the urban cancer registries, among both men and women.

(b) Based on the data from population-based cancer registries in Bangalore, Bombay & Madras, the estimated number of new cancer cases for the year 1992 was 644,600. Considering no change in age specific incidence, 806,000 incidences of cancer cases are expected to occur during the year 2001.

(c) To strengthen the National Cancer Control Programme, the Government of India has launched the following schemes for early detection of the disease, creating awareness for the same and treatment of cancer :-

i) Upgradation of Regional Cancer Centres in various States/UTs.
ii) Development of Oncology Wing in identified Medical Colleges/Hospitals
iii) Setting up of Cobalt Therapy facilities in various parts of the country.
iv) District Cancer Control Programme including a pilot project called `Modified District Cancer Control Programme`.
v) Financial assistance to NGOs for early detection and awareness activities.