SGPGI Lucknow Reports 33% Rise in Cancer Cases, Experts Highlight Need for Early Detection
The atmosphere within the radiotherapy department waiting area at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) in Lucknow is often thick with anticipation and anxiety. Here, cancer patients—men, women, and children—await their turn for exposure to high-energy rays, clinging to hope as they battle rogue cells within their bodies.
A Growing Burden of Cancer Patients
Each patient is typically accompanied by a family member, standing resolutely by their side while juggling external challenges such as financial strains, workplace pressures, and emotional turmoil. By the end of each calendar year, the department serves an estimated 2,500 patients. While names and faces change annually, the relentless saga of cancer continues to expand.
Statistics reveal a concerning trend: the burden of cancer patients at SGPGI has surged by approximately 33% over the past decade. Radiation oncologist and dean, Professor Shaleen Kumar, noted, "Numbers indicate that gastrointestinal cancers constitute the largest portion of our caseload, followed by head and neck cancers and breast cancers."
Shifts in Patient Demographics and Late Diagnoses
Professor Punita Lal, head of radiotherapy, highlighted a shift in the median age of cancer patients over the past five years. "In 2020, the median age was around 44 years, whereas it has risen to 55 years in 2025," she explained. Regarding the stage-wise distribution of patients arriving at SGPGI, she added, "Only about 5% of patients come to us in the first stage, while a staggering 40% present in advanced stages."
Underlying Issues and the Call for Awareness
Experts point out that these numbers often mask deeper issues, including the urgent need for awareness about early warning signs, faster referral systems, and support for families to avoid medical poverty. There is also a critical requirement for enhanced palliative care infrastructure.
Despite affirmative measures like Ayushman Bharat and reduced costs of cancer medications in recent years, the journey for patients and their families remains arduous. "The grind that a patient's family endures while dealing with the disease underscores the necessity for greater awareness," they emphasized.
This observation is particularly relevant as Uttar Pradesh accounts for roughly 15% of India's total cancer burden, translating to around two lakh new cases annually.
Dedication of Healthcare Professionals
Professor Radha Krishan Dhiman, director of SGPGI, praised the unwavering commitment of the medical staff. "What truly stands out in the battle against cancer in our radiotherapy department is the relentless effort by doctors, residents, and staff," he stated.
"Outcomes can be draining for healthcare providers as much as for caregivers, but what distinguishes our team is their ability to rebound with even greater commitment and compassion for each new case. To me, they embody life, hope, and duty," Professor Dhiman concluded.
