Cancer cases in Sikkim have seen a dramatic rise, with the number reaching 551 in 2024, nearly doubling from 236 in 2015. The sharp increase in cases has sparked concern among health experts, particularly with a notable spike in the past two years. According to Dr. Ashish Rai, Head of the Oncology Department at STNM Hospital, this surge in cancer cases reflects both growing awareness and the improved availability of medical facilities in the state. The cancer prevalence rate in Sikkim stands at 91.8 per 100,000 people, slightly lower than the national average of 100.4 per 100,000. However, the increasing numbers demand ongoing vigilance. Dr. Rai attributed the rise in cases to better diagnostic tools, such as CT scans and PET scans, which have significantly improved cancer detection. Earlier diagnostic methods, like ultrasound, were limited in their ability to detect cancer accurately.
In 2024, the cancer cases showed a near-equal distribution between men and women, with 270 cases reported among men and 281 cases among women. Gastrointestinal cancers are the most prevalent among men, while breast cancer remains the most common for women. Esophageal cancer, with 236 cases, emerged as the leading type, followed by stomach cancer, with 49 cases. Looking at the data from the past decade, cancer cases have steadily increased: 236 in 2015, 248 in 2016, 231 in 2017, 276 in 2018, 310 in 2019, 357 in 2020, 380 in 2021, 400+ in 2022, and 450+ in 2023. The highest number of cases was recorded in 2024, with 551 cases.
Dr. Rai pointed to several lifestyle factors contributing to the rise in cancer cases, including the high consumption of red meat, smoked meat, and fermented foods, along with an increasing reliance on junk food. The trend towards a more sedentary lifestyle and reduced physical activity also played a significant role. Furthermore, environmental factors, such as exposure to pesticides, have been noted as contributing factors. Dr. Rai emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and regular screening, pointing out that Sikkim’s improved healthcare infrastructure has been instrumental in identifying and treating cancer at earlier stages, offering hope for better outcomes.