NEW DELHI: Breast, cervical and ovarian cancer cases have risen steadily in India over the past five years, with deaths also increasing, according to new government data tabled in Parliament — underscoring the growing burden of cancers that largely affect women and the urgency of early detection.Figures from the National Cancer Registry Programme show breast cancer cases rose from about 2.13 lakh in 2021 to nearly 2.4 lakh in 2025. Cervical cancer cases increased from around 77,000 to over 79,000, while ovarian cancer cases climbed from about 45,000 to nearly 49,500 over the same period.Deaths have followed a similar upward trend. Breast cancer deaths increased from about 91,700 in 2021 to over 1.03 lakh in 2025. Cervical cancer deaths rose from roughly 41,500 to nearly 42,800, and ovarian cancer deaths from about 27,600 to more than 30,000 in five years.Large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka reported the highest absolute numbers of breast and cervical cancer cases, while northeastern states including Assam, Mizoram and Manipur continued to show disproportionately high cervical cancer rates relative to population size.The data was shared by the Union health ministry in response to a Rajya Sabha question. Officials said the rise reflects both an increasing disease burden and improved detection through expanded screening.Oncologists said the figures point to gaps that still need urgent attention. Dr Pragya Shukla, head of clinical oncology at Delhi State Cancer Institute, said the data reinforces the need to accelerate screening, HPV vaccination, timely referral and affordable treatment, warning that gaps in awareness and early care continue to drive avoidable deaths.To address the trend, the Centre said it is strengthening cancer care under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases. At present, 770 district NCD clinics, 364 district day-care cancer centres and over 6,400 NCD clinics at community health centres are operational nationwide, with 297 more district day-care cancer centres approved for 2025–26.Population-based screening for people aged 30 years and above is being scaled up for early detection of breast and cervical cancer. The ministry said 19 State Cancer Institutes, 20 Tertiary Cancer Care Centres and cancer facilities across 22 new AIIMS are also part of the expansion.
