Ahmedabad Cancer Statistics Reveal Mouth and Breast Cancers Account for 20% of Hospital Admissions
Recent data from the Gujarat Cancer Research Institute (GCRI) in Ahmedabad has highlighted a significant trend in cancer admissions. From January to November 2025, mouth cancer and breast cancer combined made up two out of every ten cases treated at the institute. During this eleven-month period, GCRI recorded a total of 16,794 patients suffering from various types of cancers.
Detailed Breakdown of Patient Demographics
The patient distribution showed that 10,096 men and 6,698 women were admitted for cancer treatment. Among these, specific figures reveal that 1,931 men were diagnosed with mouth cancer, while 1,456 women were admitted for breast cancer. This data underscores the prevalence of these two cancer types in the region.
Consistent Cancer Patterns with Evolving Treatment Approaches
According to Dr. Shashank Pandya, the director of GCRI, the types of cancers have remained largely unchanged over the past few years. However, he emphasized a shift in the medical approach. "What has changed is the approach. We see more patients coming in at a relatively early stage. There has been a rise in awareness too. Today, new tools and technologies are available to oncologists, and thus results — in terms of recovery period as well as preservation of limbs and tissues — are better," Dr. Pandya stated.
In line with this advancement, GCRI has embraced cutting-edge treatments. Over the past six months alone, the institute performed 50 robotic surgeries. One notable innovation is the introduction of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPAC) for abdominal cancers, a technique designed to reduce residues of cancerous cells effectively.
Enhanced Screening Initiatives and Public Health Efforts
GCRI officials have also launched proactive screening programs to combat cancer. A recent initiative involved HPV DNA screening for HIV-AIDS patients at Civil Hospital, which identified a 21% HPV-positive rate among females. This effort is part of a broader strategy to improve early detection and prevention.
World Cancer Day Focus on Personalized Support and Awareness
As World Cancer Day is observed under the theme ‘United by Unique,’ oncologists in Ahmedabad are stressing the importance of personalized support, research, and equitable access to treatment. Several events were held across the city to mark the occasion, including a gathering at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial on Tuesday, which brought together cancer survivors and advocates.
Uday Vora, a retired chief conservator of forest (CCF) with the state forest department, shared his personal journey. Diagnosed with a rare skin cancer known as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), Vora underwent surgery and recovery. His wife is also a cancer survivor and actively campaigns for cancer awareness and screening.
Vora highlighted the societal challenges associated with cancer. "We have many stigmas associated with the condition. We have even seen people leaving their spouses. There are often cases of patients getting advice for alternative treatment. Through events and active community participation, we try to bust myths and create awareness," he added.
Community Engagement and Preventive Measures
Dr. Jignesh Shah, president of the Ahmedabad Medical Association (AMA), emphasized the role of community in cancer prevention. "The message of the day is to ensure that families have knowledge of both preventive steps and self-screening to ensure early prevention and detection," he said. The AMA recently organized an event to celebrate the journeys of cancer warriors, reinforcing the need for ongoing education and support.
The collective efforts in Ahmedabad reflect a growing emphasis on early diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and public awareness to combat the rising tide of cancer cases effectively.
