
Cancer cases among youth soar as lifestyle changes take toll in Nepal
Cancer cases among youth soar as lifestyle changes take toll in Nepal
- Significant increase in cancer cases among young people in Nepal has been reported.
- Doctors attribute the surge to unhealthy lifestyles and limited awareness about cancer risks.
- The rising rates necessitate urgent government intervention for awareness and early treatment.
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In Nepal, a disturbing trend has emerged wherein an increasing number of young individuals, including children and those in their late twenties and early thirties, are being diagnosed with cancer. This rise has prompted oncologists, such as Dr. Shivaji Poudel from Chitwan, to express serious concerns about cancer cases in the country. Although the precise number of cancer patients remains unknown, estimations indicate a significant increase in cancer cases among the youth in recent years. According to statistics from the Global Cancer Observatory, there were approximately 22,008 cancer cases reported in Nepal in 2022, alongside 14,704 cancer-related deaths. Additionally, between 2017 and 2022, around 44,803 individuals were diagnosed with cancer, indicating a substantial impact of this illness on the population. Dr. Shivaji Poudel noted that many patients seek treatment only in the advanced stages of cancer, which drastically reduces their chances of recovery and survival. The rising incidence of cancer among younger individuals has been attributed to a combination of genetic factors and changing lifestyles. Dr. Sudip Shrestha, chairman of the Nepal Cancer Hospital and Research Center, highlighted the role of unhealthy diets and sedentary habits in the escalating cancer rates. However, he also emphasized that more comprehensive studies are necessary to fully understand the contributing factors behind this concerning trend. Furthermore, the lack of adequate healthcare facilities, limited access to essential screenings, and low awareness of cancer symptoms among both the public and healthcare providers contribute to the high mortality rate from cancer in Nepal. Although cervical cancer screening is provided free of charge at state-run health facilities, its implementation has not yet been fully realized. Owing to these challenges, many Nepalis resort to traveling to India for treatment, which may further complicate their health outcomes. Thus, it is imperative for the government to enhance cancer awareness, improve access to healthcare, and promote early diagnostics as part of efforts to combat this growing public health crisis.