Kerala, also called as “God's Own Country”, is a beautiful destination for tourists worldwide. Its scenic beauty with backwaters, beaches, and temples gathers attention. However, in recent days, all might not be well with Kerala. The rising cancer rate in the state is alarming. The Economic Review of the State in 2024 reported that cancer is one of the major non-communicable diseases (NCD) in Kerala. It further revealed that the cancer deaths among males in the state are much higher in comparison to the national average.
According to a Times of India report, Kerala’s 2016 cancer incidence rate was 135.3 per lakh of the population. However, in 2022, it rose to 169 per lakh of population. Further, the count of new patients at Thiruvananthapuram Regional Cancer Centre went to 15,324 in 2022-23 from 11,191 in 2020-21. The data is alarming, and the government is taking many steps for early diagnosis and correct treatment. However, the question remains: Despite all the measures, why is the cancer rate still so high in Kerala? Read on as we try to find answers to many such questions.
How Many Cancer Patients Are in Kerala?
Cancer cases and deaths in Kerala are increasing every year. Before discussing the causes, let’s have a look at some concerning health statistics.
- When the country was hit by COVID-19 in 2020, around 57,155 individuals were diagnosed with cancer in Kerala. By 2022, this number went to 59,143.
- Cancer-related deaths in the state were 31,166 in 2020. This also significantly rose in 2022 and went to 32,271.
- Regarding district-wise cancer patients in Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram witnessed a rise of 36% in 3 years, from 2020 to 2023.
- Kerala is the state with the highest crude cancer incidence rates in India.
- The state struggles with different types of cancer patients, like colorectal cancer and large bowel cancer.
- Further, the cases of ovarian and thyroid cancer among women are also going up in Kerala.
Why is the Cancer Rate High in Kerala?
The Kerala government is developing several strategies to reduce cancer rates. From setting up oncology centres to adopting measures for early detection, they are doing it all. However, the spread of these non-communicable diseases keeps going high despite measures being taken for their prevention. Now, this happens because of several factors. Here are some of the common factors revealing why Kerala has more cancer patients:
Lifestyle Habits
Several factors like smoking, diet imbalances, pollution, stress, and physical inactivity lead to the spread of a variety of non-communicable diseases. And Kerala cancer is one of them. According to the National Family Health Survey, 2019-20, 16.9% of men in Kerala were found to be addicted to tobacco. Additionally, the obesity rate in the state has surpassed the national average.
Around 38.1% of women between the ages of 15 and 49 were found obese. Further, the percentage of obese males in the age group of 15 to 49 years was 36.4%. Factors like obesity and unhealthy weight make the Keralite population more vulnerable to different types of cancer like breast, lung, and kidney.
Addiction to Alcohol and Tobacco
Alcohol is one of the leading causes of cancer. It does so in several ways. Let's understand the same. When you consume alcohol, your body reacts by turning it into a chemical called acetaldehyde. Now, this chemical is very harmful to cells. Not only does it damage cells, it also prevents their repair. Additionally, alcohol consumption can also mess up the hormone levels in your body, increasing the chances of cancer.
Now, given the facts, you know how the heavy reliance of the Kerala population on alcohol is one of the leading reasons for cancer cases. Although the state has been taking several measures to control excessive consumption, the alcohol consumption rate of the state still stands at 12.4%.
Unhealthy Eating
Adverse lifestyle changes and unhealthy eating regimes are the significant reasons putting the state at risk levels. Several doctors and health experts have attested that the food patterns adopted by Keralites expose them to higher health concerns. This includes the risk of cancer.
Food items like red meat, lamb, and beef are generally part of the state’s dietary patterns. However, these food items are major sources of N-glycolylneuraminic acid, which is said to increase the chances of cancer, according to several studies.
Employment Demographics
According to a report by the International Labour Organisation, Kerala ranked 19th among the 22 states regarding unemployed educated males. Around 31.28 % of educated men in Kerala are unemployed. This unemployment is a leading cause of stress and anxiety. However, the prevalence of stress isn't just common among the unemployed. Instead, the state's population occupied with white-collar jobs is also burdened with tight deadlines, heavy workloads, and management.
Such high levels of stress and depression among the working and non-working population is one of the prominent reasons why the state has higher levels of health concerns.
Ignorance Towards Physical Activities
You're at a greater risk of health hazards if you're physically inactive. Your physical inactivity can lead to several concerns like weight gain, obesity, and more. Furthermore, all these concerns are somehow shown to be related to increasing or decreasing the chances of cancer.
According to a recent study by Lancet Health, around 50% of the Indian population is physically inactive. Thus, they are exposed to greater health risks. To be physically active, the WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity physical workouts per week.
>> Also Read: Cancer Treatment Cost In India: Important Things You Need to Know
The Way Forward
Cancer cases are a big concern. They are not only physically and emotionally burdening but financially challenging. This is why it is vital to insure yourself. The right health insurance assures you get effective treatment without being restricted by financial constraints. Care Cancer Mediclaim by Care Health Insurance is a comprehensive policy that offers coverage for major cancer-related expenses at all stages. A sum insured of up to 2 crores, along with coverage features like chemo and radiotherapy, cashless hospitalisation, and a long list of value-added services, make this policy very suitable.
If you have a family history of cancer, purchasing cancer insurance is even more prudent. Even with a regular health insurance policy, it's crucial to opt for cancer coverage, as this disease often demands long-term care and treatment. A standard plan with a modest cover may not be sufficient to manage the extensive costs associated with ongoing cancer treatment. Investing in specialised coverage ensures better financial protection during such a challenging time.
Wrapping Up!
Cancer is a major health hazard. Based on the WHO global data, around 1 in every 6 deaths is caused by cancer. This is why the exponential rise in cancer cases in Kerala needs immediate attention and suitable reforms. With simple changes like maintaining a healthy weight, having a nutritional diet, and being physically active, you can improve your overall health and avoid several health concerns. Further meditation practice can help reduce stress levels. Not to forget, limiting alcohol consumption is equally important.
Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.
References:
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/cancer-mortality-extremely-high-among-males-in-kerala-compared-to-national-average-economic-review-data-9144243/
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/cancer-cases-on-the-rise-in-kerala/articleshow/96241096.cms
https://drarvindkumar.com/blog/top-10-cancer-states-in-india-2023-cancer-statistics-in-india.php
https://www.thenewsminute.com/amp/story/kerala/kerala-not-full-of-tipplers-data-says-state-is-not-even-on-top-10-list
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/eating-habits-putting-keralites-at-risk/articleshow/102409842.cms
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