Don’t Ignore the Signs: Lung Cancer Now India’s Second Deadliest Cancer Among Men

Hyderabad, 1st August, 2025: On the occasion of World Lung Cancer Day, CARE Hospitals is raising awareness on the importance of early screening and timely intervention, key steps in reducing deaths caused by lung cancer. With cases rising steadily in India, doctors warn that proactive diagnosis is now more important than ever.

Lung cancer continues to be one of the most dangerous and fast-growing cancers in India and across the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it accounts for over 1.8 million deaths globally every year, making it the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

In India, lung cancer is now the second most common cause of cancer deaths among men, with a sharp increase in cases every year. Studies estimate that about 28 people per one lakh population are affected by lung cancer, with 15–20% annual growth in new cases. Experts say that India may soon be among the top countries for lung cancer incidence due to a combination of tobacco use, air pollution, genetic factors, and lifestyle habits.

Nearly 30% of Indian adult men smoke, and many more are exposed to passive smoking or polluted environments. While the disease affects both men and women, it remains more prevalent among males, particularly those over 40 with a history of smoking or industrial exposure.

“When we talk about lung cancer, we should not only think about smoking. There are other hidden risks that can increase the chances of getting this disease. In cities, breathing polluted air, especially tiny harmful particles like PM2.5, can cause cancer. At home, smoke from cooking fuels, incense sticks, or mosquito coils, especially in places without good ventilation, can also be harmful. People who don’t smoke but live around smokers are affected too. At work, those in construction, mining, or factory jobs may breathe in harmful substances like asbestos, diesel smoke, or radon gas, which can damage the lungs over time” said Dr. Deepak Koppaka, Senior Medical Oncologist, CARE Hospitals, Hitech-City, Hyderabad.

“Most patients come to us when it’s already too late. But with regular screening, we can catch the cancer early,even before symptoms appear, and treat it more effectively,” said Dr. Deepak added.

Lung cancer typically begins as a small nodule or mass in the lungs and may not show symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. High-risk individuals, those who smoke, breathe polluted air, work in high-risk occupations, or have a family history of cancer, are encouraged to undergo low-dose CT scans to detect the disease early.

Early screening plays a vital role in the fight against lung cancer. It helps detect the disease at an initial stage when treatment is simpler and more effective, significantly increasing survival rates, by up to 60% in some cases. Early detection also reduces the need for aggressive therapies and lowers the overall cost and burden of treatment for patients and their families.

He added, “If someone has a chronic cough, chest pain, weight loss or breathlessness, they should see a doctor immediately. Lung cancer doesn’t always show early symptoms, so don’t wait.”

Experts also emphasize that cancer is no longer a death sentence. Medical advancements like targeted chemotherapy, high-precision radiation, and diagnostic tools like Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) are improving accuracy, comfort, and success rates in treatment. These technologies allow doctors to identify tumors in the lungs, chest, and lymph nodes more effectively and with minimal discomfort.

Hyderabad has become a hub for advanced cancer care, with state-of-the-art infrastructure and expert oncologists delivering world-class treatment under one roof.

This World Lung Cancer Day, CARE Hospitals urges the public to stay alert to warning signs, avoid smoking, and take timely action. Early detection doesn’t just save lives, it makes treatment easier and recovery faster.