Why Indians get cancer: Top oncologist shares 5 avoidable reasons

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally, and India is witnessing a rise in its cancer burden. A journal published in the JAMA network a nationwide report based on 43 population-based cancer registries, provides a comprehensive overview of the cancer incidence and mortality rate across India between 2015-2019. These registries, presented under National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR), Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), and Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry Programme, represent nearly 18% of the Indian population. While lifestyle preferences and environment plays a huge role.
Dr. Jayesh Sharma, a leading oncologist outlines five major reasons why Indians are developing cancer, and what to do to reduce the risk, let's look at them one by one:

Dr. Jayesh is clear: Tobacco is the number one reason why Indians get cancer. Every year over 1.2 lakh people die because of tobacco-related cancers. Tobacco affects not only the lungs but also throat, esophagus and other vital organs. Whether one is smoking or chewing, tobacco contains carcinogens that damage and mutate the DNA which leads to tumor formation.

Human papillomavirus, abbreviated as HPV, is a major cause of cancer that affects the mouth, genitals as well as the throat. In India, oral and throat cancers are on the rise, and is largely transmitted through unsafe sex and poor hygiene. Dr. Sharma stresses the need for awareness about safe copulation practices and HPV vaccination to be taken at the right age, which can significantly reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers, especially younger generations.

Alcohol consumption in semi-urban and urban areas is high. According to Dr. Jayesh, excessive intake of alcohol damages the liver and increases the risk of cancer in mouth, neck or esophagus. If combined with tobacco intake, alcohol becomes even more deadlier. Moderation- or better yet, avoiding is the key to reducing alcohol linked oral-cancers.
Long-term alcohol use also weakens the immune system, impairs nutrient absorption, and contributes to chronic inflammation—all of which further increase the likelihood of cellular mutations. Public awareness, routine health check-ups, and early lifestyle changes are essential in curbing the growing burden of alcohol-related diseases

One of the most obvious reasons, a silent threat-obesity. “It’s not just laziness or bad diet—it’s a serious health risk,” warns Dr. Sharma. Globally, obesity is responsible for 15% of all cancer. Fast food consumption, inactive lifestyle and high processed diets are pushing more Indians into the high-risk zone. Home-cooked meals, regular exercise is essential for prevention.

It is definitely not what we think! While many people fear pesticides in food, Dr. Sharma clarifies: "Pesticides are a real cancer risk only for those working directly with them in high-exposure environments.” For an average consumer, the pesticide levels in fruits and vegetables are too low to pose a direct threat. The real danger lies in ignoring occupational safety for farmers.
In the words of Dr. Sharma, “Don’t wait until it’s too late,” awareness, prevention, and early action are our strongest tools against cancer.