Cancer Burden Escalates in Bihar with Over 1 Lakh New Cases Estimated for 2025
As the burden of cancer continues to rise across India, including in Bihar, healthcare professionals are shifting focus beyond mere treatment to comprehensive patient care. The upcoming World Cancer Day 2026, observed on Wednesday with the theme "united by unique," underscores the critical need to center individuals, their experiences, and specific needs at every stage of cancer management.
Alarming Statistics and Regional Prevalence
Health experts report a significant increase in cancer incidence within Bihar, with projections indicating more than one lakh new cases in 2025. Although precise annual growth rates differ across reports, studies consistently show a steady upward trend. This surge is largely attributed to widespread tobacco use and a general lack of awareness about prevention strategies among the population.
In Bihar, gallbladder and head/neck cancers are notably prevalent, while breast and cervical cancers dominate among women. A pervasive low level of awareness regarding cancer symptoms and risk factors, especially in rural communities, leads to high mortality rates and frequent late-stage diagnoses.
Detailed Breakdown of Cancer Types
A recent survey conducted by the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre from November 2022 to December 2023 reveals that oral cancer cases constitute over 51% of all detected cases in the state. This is followed by breast cancer at 22%, cervical cancer at 16%, and other forms accounting for the remaining 11%.
Globally, the situation is equally concerning. According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) report, cancer incidence in India is estimated to rise by 90.4% by 2050, with mortality rates expected to increase by 99%.
Critical Gaps in Screening and Awareness
Citing the National Family Health Survey report, Dr. Punam Raman of the State Institute of Health and Family Welfare highlighted a stark reality: less than 1% of people in Bihar undergo screening for cervical, breast, and oral cancers. This alarming statistic is compounded by limited cancer care infrastructure and insufficient public awareness, creating significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment.
"Due to low awareness about the disease and limited cancer care infrastructure, there is a lack of access to diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, most cancer cases reach hospitals at an advanced stage, leaving little scope for effective treatment," Dr. Raman explained.
Focus on Women's Health and Prevention
Dr. Raman emphasized that breast and cervical cancers are the two most common among women in Bihar. She noted that cervical cancer can be largely prevented through HPV screenings and vaccination, with about 99% of cases preventable if girls aged 9-14 years are vaccinated. Similarly, early detection of breast cancer via mammograms and ultrasounds can prevent numerous cases.
"Early detection through awareness, vaccination, and screening is crucial for achieving high cure rates," she asserted.
Root Causes: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Environment
Discussing the prevalence of various cancer types in Bihar, Dr. Vishwajeet Sanyal, Director of Mahavir Cancer Sansthan, provided a breakdown of contributing factors. He indicated that approximately 10% of cases stem from genetic factors, while 40% are linked to lifestyle choices such as sedentary habits, tobacco chewing, smoking, alcohol consumption, and contaminated food intake. The remaining 50% of cases result from multiple factors, including age-related cancers like colon, gallbladder, and prostate cancer.
Dr. Satish Kumar of Nalanda Medical College and Hospital reinforced the importance of early detection and prevention as foundational elements of effective cancer care. "Identifying cancer at an early stage improves treatment outcomes, reduces the intensity of therapy required, and helps preserve quality of life," he stated. He also acknowledged that while advances in diagnosis and treatment have improved survival rates, the cancer experience extends far beyond clinical procedures.
Environmental and Emotional Factors
Former state president of the Indian Medical Association and former superintendent of Patna Medical College and Hospital, Dr. Rajiv Ranjan Prasad, pointed to environmental degradation as a significant accelerator of cancer incidence in Bihar. "Increasing environmental pollution and contamination of drinking water and food by various toxic elements has accelerated the incidence of cancer in the state," he said.
He further explained that many urban residents live in congested areas filled with dust, smoke, and filth, which adversely affect their health. "They do not find free space even to breathe fresh oxygen. Moreover, emotional setbacks are also telling upon their health," he added. Dr. Prasad advocated for healthy lifestyles, residing in open spaces, and regular screening as essential measures to curb the rising cancer rates.
