Cancer Cases Rising in Jammu & Kashmir: Numbers and Efforts Revealed
Srinagar, April 3, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a troubling rise in cancer cases, with over 67,000 new cases recorded between 2018 and 2024, according to Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, the Minister highlighted the growing burden of cancer in the Union Territory, emphasizing the government’s efforts to enhance cancer care infrastructure and introduce innovative therapies.
Steady Increase in Cases
The recorded numbers indicate a consistent year-on-year rise in cancer cases:
- 2020: 12,726 cases
- 2021: 13,060 cases
- 2022: 13,395 cases
- 2023: 13,744 cases
- 2024: 14,112 cases
A notable surge in cervical cancer cases was also observed, increasing steadily from 612 in 2019 to 684 in 2023.
Strengthening Cancer Care Infrastructure
To address the alarming trend, the government has made significant investments in cancer care. Nationwide, 19 State Cancer Institutes (SCIs) and 20 Tertiary Cancer Care Centres (TCCCs) have been established, alongside the integration of cancer care services in 22 new AIIMS hospitals, offering advanced diagnosis, medical treatment, and surgery.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the strengthened infrastructure includes:
- 2 State Cancer Institutes
- 2 Tertiary Cancer Care Centres
- 20 Day Care Centres
- 11 District Hospitals providing palliative care
Additionally, Rs 24 crore has been allocated under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) to further combat cancer and other non-communicable diseases in the region.
Focus on Research and Accessible Therapies
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) continues to lead cancer research efforts, with a focus on developing innovative, cost-effective, and accessible therapies. The aim is to improve diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of cancer biology while ensuring timely care for patients.
Public Awareness and Preventive Measures
Experts stress the need for increased public awareness and preventive measures to curb the rise in cancer cases. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are critical to reducing the cancer burden in the Union Territory.
The Minister’s report serves as a call to action for stronger community involvement and sustained government efforts to address this pressing healthcare challenge.
