The Gujarat Government has affirmed its dedication to offering the best possible treatment for severe diseases, including cancer, as reported by the Chief Minister’s Office. This commitment is under the direction of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the leadership of Minister of State for Health, Praful Pansheriya.

With a rising concern over health issues, the government aims to enhance access to treatments and foster awareness about preventative measures, particularly concerning lung cancer.

Statistics Highlighting Lung Cancer Crisis

The alarming figures from the GLOBOCAN 2022 report indicate that India witnesses more than 1.12 lakh new lung cancer diagnoses annually, accompanied by over 98,000 fatalities. Globally, there are approximately 26 lakh new cases and more than 18 lakh deaths each year, categorising lung cancer as the deadliest form of cancer worldwide.

Research from the Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI), based in Ahmedabad, reveals a consistent increase in lung cancer cases over the past five years. The institute documented 813 patients in 2021 and observed a gradual rise to 1,133 patients in 2025, summing up to a total of 4,830 cases. The demographic breakdown indicates that 3,931 patients (81.4 per cent) were men while 899 patients (18.6 per cent) were women.

The primary risk factors identified for lung cancer encompass the use of bidis, cigarettes, and other tobacco products, alongside passive smoking and exposure to environmental pollutants and harmful industrial substances like asbestos.

Advanced Treatment Options Available

The GCRI, which was established in 1972, has evolved into a leading institution for advanced lung cancer treatment. The facility provides an array of modern diagnostic and treatment options, including robotic surgery, PET-CT scans, 3 Tesla MRI, 128-slice CT scans, bronchoscopy, and various advanced radiation therapies like CyberKnife, TrueBeam, and TomoTherapy.

Additionally, patients have access to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, offered either free of charge or at subsidised rates under governmental health schemes such as PMJAY-MA. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that all patients receive the necessary care and treatment.

Global data reveals that lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The often mild or non-specific initial symptoms contribute to late diagnoses, further complicating treatment. Nevertheless, timely detection and comprehensive awareness programmes can significantly enhance survival rates.

Public Awareness and Preventative Measures

In a bid to increase public consciousness about lung cancer prevention and the importance of early screening, the Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute has launched an awareness campaign. The initiative carries the message, “Quit Tobacco, Save Your Lungs – Get Screened Early, Save Life,” urging citizens to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health.

The campaign aims to educate the public on the symptoms associated with lung cancer, including persistent cough, blood in cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and sudden weight loss, encouraging prompt medical consultations for those experiencing such indicators.

Ultimately, the Gujarat Government, in collaboration with healthcare institutions, strives to make significant strides in the fight against lung cancer and other serious diseases, providing essential treatments and fostering preventive health measures among its citizens.

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