35–38 New Cancer Cases Reported Daily in Jammu Kashmir, Say Oncologists | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing between 35 and 38 new cancer cases every day, oncologists said on World Cancer Day, calling for expanded screening programmes, stronger awareness campaigns and investment in advanced treatment facilities across the Union Territory.

Dr Zahoor Ahmad, senior oncologist at SKIMS Soura, said the number of fresh cases being detected daily reflects a steady and concerning rise in the cancer burden.

“On average, we are witnessing around 35 to 38 new cancer cases every single day across the UT, and this number is likely to grow further in the coming years,” he said.

Doctors said that while most treatment modalities are available in major government tertiary hospitals and some private institutions, highly advanced technologies such as Proton Radiotherapy are not yet available in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dr Manzoor, Head of the Department of Radiation Oncology at GMC Srinagar, said the overall cancer pattern in Kashmir broadly matches national and global trends, but with some regional differences. Gastrointestinal cancers, particularly of the oesophagus and stomach, are more prevalent in the region, along with a high incidence of breast and lung cancers.

“This makes it extremely important to focus on large-scale screening and prevention strategies, especially for gastrointestinal cancers,” he said, stressing the need for mass screening, early diagnosis and community-level awareness.

He said Proton Beam Therapy, considered one of the most advanced radiotherapy technologies, is currently available at only a few centres in India and should be considered for future expansion to Jammu and Kashmir.

Noted oncologist Dr Ashraf Ashia emphasised the role of preventive oncology, saying vaccines such as those against HPV, lifestyle modifications, genetics-based therapies and biotherapy are emerging as important tools in cancer management.

Doctors said public participation through healthier lifestyles, regular check-ups and awareness of early symptoms can significantly reduce cancer-related deaths, alongside strengthening hospital infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also acknowledged the rising incidence of cancer and called for strengthening oncology services across the UT.

Speaking in Jammu, he said state cancer institutes must function with adequate manpower and infrastructure. He said the government’s priorities include funding research and development, improving healthcare systems and ensuring that doctors have proper facilities to work effectively.

He noted that access to treatment remains a challenge for economically weaker sections due to the high cost of medicines and said the government is considering a special package to support such patients, which will be announced later.

Oncologists urged authorities to expand screening programmes in both rural and urban areas and invest in modern medical technologies to address the growing cancer burden in Jammu and Kashmir.