India can take a big leap in Cancer Care with Improved access to treatment and People-centered Approach: Experts

World Cancer Day: Experts See India’s Daycare Cancer Centers in Alignment with World Cancer Day’s ‘United by Unique’ Campaign

New Delhi, February 2025: Cancer is more than just a medical diagnosis; it’s a deeply personal battle that affects millions. Behind every diagnosis lies a unique human story—stories of grief, pain, healing, resilience, and love. This year’s World Cancer Day theme, ‘United by Unique,’ emphasizes a people-centered approach to cancer care, urging us to look beyond the disease and recognize the individual.

In response to the alarming rise in cancer cases, the government has announced the establishment of 200 daycare cancer centers in district hospitals as part of the Union Budget 2025-26. These centers aim to enhance accessibility, promote early detection, and reduce treatment delays, particularly for underserved populations. Over the next three years, the government envisions bringing daycare cancer facilities to every district hospital, a transformative step in bridging the cancer care gap. Healthcare leaders and experts find this move of the government perfectly aligned with ‘United by Unique’ theme and campaign.

With one in every nine Indians at risk of developing cancer and a 12.8% projected increase in annual cases by 2025, these daycare cancer centers will play a crucial role in reducing the burden on tertiary hospitals and bringing cancer treatment closer to the people.

Dr. Arun Kumar Giri – Director Surgical Oncology, Aakash Healthcare, said, “The establishment of 200 daycare cancer centers will revolutionize oncology care in India. Many cancer patients discontinue or delay treatment due to travel, financial, or logistical constraints. These centers will provide chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and supportive care in district hospitals, making treatment more accessible and reducing the need for long hospital stays. By strengthening cancer infrastructure at the grassroots level, we can significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for patients.”

The ‘United by Unique’ campaign underpins the need for individualized, compassionate care that prioritizes the unique needs of each patient. People battling cancer require not just medical intervention but also psychosocial support, early screening, and community-driven awareness programs.

Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital said, “Cancer is not just a physical disease; it has profound neurological and psychological implications. Many cancer patients experience neurological complications such as neuropathy, cognitive impairment, and stroke-like symptoms, making a people-centered approach to care essential. A one-size-fits-all model does not work, as every patient’s journey is unique.”

“The government’s initiative to establish 200 daycare cancer centers will play a vital role in integrating neurology with oncology, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive neuro-oncological care. Additionally, the focus on mental health support, early screening, and rehabilitation is critical for improving long-term quality of life,” added Dr. Gupta.

A staggering 75-80% of cancer patients in India are diagnosed at advanced stages, contributing to high mortality rates. The government’s focus on broadband connectivity in Primary Health Centers (PHCs) under the BharatNet Project will enable telemedicine and AI-powered diagnostics, ensuring timely screening and early interventions.

Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO, City X-Ray & Scan Clinic, said, ” Advanced diagnostics, particularly AI-driven radiology and low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer screening, will be game-changers in cancer detection. Daycare cancer centers must be equipped with cutting-edge digital pathology, MRI, and genetic screening tools to facilitate faster and more accurate diagnoses. A well-implemented PPP model in diagnostics will further accelerate accessibility and affordability.”

An emerging concern in India is the rise in lung cancer among non-smokers, driven by air pollution and poor air quality. Surgical oncologists report an alarming trend where an equal number of smokers and non-smokers now require lung cancer surgeries, with many patients under 50 years of age.

Dr. Ruchi Singh, Radiation Oncology, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences , said, “Lung cancer was once considered a smoker’s disease, but we now see a sharp increase in non-smokers developing lung cancer due to polluted air and exposure to toxic environmental factors. The widespread adoption of robotic-assisted surgery has improved outcomes, as it allows for minimally invasive tumor removal with faster recovery . Additionally, low-dose CT scans (LDCT) have proven effective in reducing lung cancer mortality by 15-20% through early detection. It’s critical that we expand access to lung cancer screenings in high-risk populations.”

With breakthroughs in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies, cancer treatment has entered a new era. These innovations enhance survival rates, minimize side effects, and improve patients’ quality of life.

Dr Pratik Patil, Consultant – Oncology, Jupiter Hospital, Pune said, ” Precision medicine and immunotherapy have redefined cancer care, offering personalized treatment based on genetic profiling. We must integrate advanced cancer treatment protocols, ensuring that patients in smaller towns receive the same quality of care as metro hospitals. With the government’s exemption of customs duties on 36 life-saving drugs, treatment costs will be significantly reduced, making cutting-edge therapies more accessible to all.

The World Cancer Day campaign will span three years, focusing on awareness, action, and impact. While the government’s initiatives lay the groundwork, collective efforts from healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities are crucial in closing the cancer care gap.

Dr. Amit Upadhyay – Consultant Medical Oncology, PSRI Hospital, said, “Early detection remains the most effective way to reduce cancer mortality, and integrating advanced diagnostics, AI-driven imaging, and molecular testing into these centers will be a game-changer. Additionally, a strong focus on rehabilitation, pain management, and mental health support will significantly improve patient outcomes. By strengthening public-private collaborations, we can create a holistic patient-centric cancer care ecosystem that prioritizes early intervention, personalized treatment, and long-term well-being.”

With the introduction of 200 daycare cancer centers, advanced diagnostics, improved access to treatment, and a people-centered approach, India is making significant strides in cancer care. However, the success of these initiatives depends on execution, community participation, and continued investment in research and innovation.

Experts call for a commitment to ensuring that ensuring that no patient fights cancer alone, that treatment is accessible to all, and that together, India can create a future where cancer is no longer a death sentence, but a manageable disease with hope for a cure. By uniting behind a common goal, and recognizing the unique needs of every cancer patient, India can truly honor the ‘United by Unique’ theme—not just in words, but in action.