Overview

• Researchers extrapolating 2015–19 registry data estimated 8.74 lakh cancer deaths in 2024 and an 11% lifetime risk nationwide.
• Women made up 51.1% of cases but 45% of deaths, reflecting the dominance of screen‑detectable breast and cervical cancers.
• Oral cancer surpassed lung cancer in men in 14 of 43 registries, with experts citing long latency after tobacco exposure and the contribution of alcohol use.
• The Northeast recorded the highest incidence, with Mizoram showing lifetime risk of 21.1% for men and 18.9% for women and Aizawl topping incidence rates for both sexes.
• Coverage remains partial at 10%–18% of the population across 23 states and UTs, 2020 data were excluded due to pandemic disruption, and the findings are being used to guide programs under Ayushman Bharat.