Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and India is no exception. A recent ICMR study under the National Cancer Registry Program has revealed a striking insight: while more women are diagnosed with cancer than men, the death rate is higher among men.

According to the study, 51.1% of cancer cases in India are reported in women, compared to men. However, when it comes to fatalities, men account for a higher proportion of cancer deaths (around 55%), despite having fewer overall cases. This paradox raises an important question—why are men dying more from cancer?

Cancer Trends in Women vs. Men

• Women: The majority of cancer cases are related to breast and cervical cancer. While serious, these cancers often have a higher survival rate, provided diagnosis and treatment are done in time.

• Men: The most common cancers are oral and lung cancer, both of which are aggressive and difficult to treat, especially in advanced stages.

Dr. Vineet Talwar, Senior Consultant, Department of Medical Oncology at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, explains:

“Breast cancer in women, if detected early, can often be treated successfully with surgery and other therapies. However, oral and lung cancers in men carry a higher mortality rate, particularly when diagnosed late.”

Why Do More Men Die of Cancer?

1. Late Diagnosis and Delayed Treatment

• Oral and lung cancers often go unnoticed in the early stages.

• Symptoms such as persistent cough, mouth sores, or difficulty breathing are either ignored or misdiagnosed.

• By the time men seek treatment, the cancer is often at an advanced stage.

In contrast, women are more likely to detect breast lumps or abnormalities early, leading to timely medical intervention.

2. High-Risk Lifestyle Habits

• Tobacco, gutkha, pan masala, and smoking are far more common among men in India.

• These habits directly contribute to the development of oral and lung cancers, which spread faster and are more fatal.

• Women, by comparison, generally have lower exposure to such lifestyle risks, reducing their incidence of these aggressive cancers.

3. Cultural and Behavioral Factors

• Many men delay visiting a doctor, even when symptoms persist.

• Women, especially in urban areas, are increasingly undergoing routine health screenings such as mammograms and Pap smears.

• Early detection plays a key role in reducing mortality rates among women.

How to Reduce the Risk

Experts suggest that both men and women should prioritize preventive healthcare. Some important measures include:

• Quit harmful habits: Stay away from tobacco, gutkha, and smoking.

• Regular health screenings: Women should undergo breast and cervical cancer screening, while men should prioritize oral and lung check-ups.

• Early attention to symptoms: Unexplained cough, lumps, weight loss, or prolonged pain should never be ignored.

• Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, physical activity, and stress management can lower cancer risks.