Northeast India Leads Nation in Cancer Rates, NCRP Study Reveals

A comprehensive study under the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) has uncovered striking regional disparities in cancer incidence across India. Among the 43 population-based cancer registries (PBCRs) surveyed between 2015 and 2019, Aizawl, East Khasi Hills, Papumpare, and Kamrup Urban emerged as the areas with the highest cancer incidence rates nationwide.

During this five-year period, a staggering 708,000 new cancer cases were recorded, accompanied by 206,000 deaths. Women accounted for 51.1 percent of these cases, while men bore a disproportionately higher share of mortality—55 percent of the deaths.

The Aizawl district in Mizoram stood out distinctly with the country’s highest age-adjusted incidence rates (AAIR) for both sexes—256.1 per 100,000 men and 217.2 per 100,000 women. Data also positioned East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya with elevated rates, and Papumpare in Arunachal Pradesh similarly ranking high.

Site-specific trends revealed areas of concern: East Khasi Hills reported the highest incidence of esophageal cancer, while Aizawl led in stomach, lung, and gallbladder cancers. Papumpare showed the highest age-adjusted rates for stomach, liver, and cervical cancers.

Experts highlight that lifestyle patterns, tobacco consumption, dietary habits, and late diagnosis contribute significantly to these high numbers. Limited healthcare infrastructure in several Northeastern states further adds to the challenge, delaying early detection and effective treatment.

The findings underscore the urgent need for robust cancer control strategies in Northeast India. Health authorities are being urged to focus on screening programs, early diagnosis, and community-based awareness initiatives tailored to the region’s unique risk factors.