A disturbing trend has emerged in India, with the country recording the highest number of oral cancer cases in South Asia, primarily attributed to the widespread consumption of smokeless tobacco products and areca nut (betel nut). According to a study published in The Lancet Oncology, India accounted for 83,400 of the 120,200 global oral cancer cases linked to these substances in 2022.
The primary culprits behind India's soaring oral cancer cases are:
Khaini (47%) and gutka (43%) among men
Areca nut (30%) and betel quid with tobacco (28%) among women
The study, led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), revealed that smokeless tobacco and areca nut use are responsible for over 31% of all oral cancer cases worldwide. Smokeless tobacco and betel nut use are deeply ingrained in Indian culture, particularly in rural areas.
Smokeless tobacco and areca nut products are available to consumers in many different forms across the world, but consuming smokeless tobacco and areca nut is linked to multiple diseases, including oral cancerDr Harriet Rumgay, Scientist, Cancer Surveillance Branch, IARC
Key Facts:
120,200 global oral cancer cases linked to smokeless tobacco and areca nut use in 2022
India accounts for 83,400 of these cases
31% of all oral cancer cases worldwide attributed to smokeless tobacco and areca nut use
95% of cases occur in low- and middle-income countries
More than 95% of these cases occur in low- and middle-income countries, with India bearing the brunt. The country's neighbors, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, also feature among the top affected nations.
Experts expressed concern over the promotion of areca nut products by Bollywood actors, emphasizing the severe health risks associated with these substances. They stressed the need for stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations to control smokeless tobacco and areca nut use.
The economic burden of oral cancer treatment is significant, with many families pushed into poverty. The loss of productivity due to oral cancer-related deaths and disabilities is substantial. Furthermore according to the lancet study, the tobacco industry mainly influencing on the economy and politics hinders effective regulation.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)