Lung Cancer Crisis Deepens in IIOJK: Over 8,000 Cases Reported in 2024 Alone

The surge in lung cancer cases across Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) signals a dangerous public health emergency, fueled by pollution, smoking, and a crumbling healthcare system.

In a deeply alarming trend, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has reported a sharp rise in lung cancer cases, with 8,355 new cases recorded in 2024 alone. Over the past five years, the region has witnessed a shocking total of 50,551 lung cancer cases, exposing a growing and unchecked health crisis.

Medical professionals point to several contributing factors behind this surge. These include increasing levels of air pollution, the high prevalence of smoking, widespread environmental hazards, and the lack of quality healthcare services. Together, these issues have created a perfect storm, particularly affecting men in the territory, where lung cancer has become the most diagnosed form of cancer.

Adding to the crisis is the disturbing pattern of late-stage diagnoses. Many patients are only seeking medical assistance when their condition has significantly deteriorated, drastically reducing their chances of successful treatment.

Dr. Irfan Ahmad, a leading oncologist at SKIMS Soura, expressed grave concern over the situation. “We are witnessing a worrying number of lung cancer cases, most of them in advanced stages. While smoking remains the primary cause, we must also address the serious impact of environmental pollution and occupational risks,” he stated.

Dr. Ahmad emphasized the urgent need for early detection programs and public awareness campaigns. He highlighted that lifestyle changes and proactive screening could play a key role in reducing mortality rates.

The lung cancer epidemic in IIOJK is part of a broader increase in overall cancer cases throughout the region. SKIMS Soura, one of the leading healthcare institutes, has reported over 5,200 new cancer cases this year alone. The institute has documented a steady rise over recent years, with 4,727 cases in 2021, 5,271 in 2022, and 5,108 in 2023.

While lung cancer remains the most prevalent among men, healthcare experts are also seeing a troubling increase in breast cancer cases among women. This adds further strain to the already overwhelmed healthcare infrastructure in the territory.

Healthcare professionals warn that the region’s limited access to specialized cancer treatment is worsening the situation, especially in rural areas. The availability of essential medications, trained oncologists, and advanced diagnostic tools is insufficient to meet the rising demand.

Experts continue to call for urgent reforms. Expanding cancer screening programs, improving rural healthcare access, and strengthening the availability of cancer medications are crucial steps to address this escalating crisis.

Without immediate intervention, the combination of environmental degradation, unhealthy lifestyles, and sub-standard healthcare threatens to push IIOJK deeper into a public health catastrophe.