BackgroundThis study investigates the rising burden of cancer in India between 1990 and 2021. The age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) grew by 46.02%, reaching 60.44 per 100,000 population in 2021 compared to 41.39 in 1990. The incidence rate also exhibited a significant increase of 34.94% during this period. We utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) to comprehensively analyze trends in four key cancer metrics: incidence, prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and ASMR. MethodsJoinpoint regression analysis was employed to reveal temporal trends in these metrics. This method estimates the Annual Percent Change (APC) and Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC) at potential joinpoints (significant shifts in trend). ResultsA concerning upward shift in cancer incidence, prevalence, DALYs, and ASMR was identified using joinpoint analysis. Notably, both prevalence and incidence rates exhibited a significant jump around 2006-2009, followed by a period of moderation. The DALY rate initially declined until 2004, likely reflecting improvements in healthcare. However, this trend subsequently became more variable. The ASMR displayed a U-shaped trajectory, initially decreasing, then increasing, and finally exhibiting a slight recent decline. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate a substantial increase in India's cancer burden. To mitigate this challenge, effective policy programs should prioritize both preventive measures and early detection strategies, with a particular focus on the vulnerable elderly population. Such interventions have the potential to reduce new cancer cases, improve the quality of life for cancer patients, and potentially decrease cancer-related mortality.
Jena et al. (Wed,) studied this question.