Mumbai, April 6: On the occasion of World Health Day, Mumbai is grappling not only with an overburdened healthcare system but also a worrying rise in lifestyle-related diseases, particularly cancer among younger populations.
The public healthcare network run by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation continues to serve as the backbone of affordable care, with over 15,000 government hospital beds compared to more than 30,000 in the private sector. Despite this, major civic hospitals operate under constant pressure, often catering to patients from across Maharashtra and beyond.
“BMC hospitals handle a disproportionately high patient load because they provide affordable and specialised care,” a senior civic health official said. “On most days, our major hospitals function at near-full capacity.”
Rise in cancer cases among youth
Amid this strain, doctors are raising alarm over a sharp increase in cancer cases, especially among youth. According to Dr Prathamesh Pai of Gleneagles Hospital, head and neck cancers account for nearly 30% of all cancer cases in India—far higher than the global average of around 3%.
“Oral cancers, often linked to tobacco and areca nut consumption, are being detected late because people ignore early symptoms,” Dr Pai said. “By the time patients come to us, many are already in advanced stages, which significantly reduces survival chances.”
He further noted a threefold rise in thyroid cancer cases in recent years, although early detection can offer up to 99% survival in younger patients.
Lifestyle and environmental factors
Medical experts also point to lifestyle changes and environmental factors as key contributors. Increasing consumption of processed food, rising obesity and lack of physical activity are driving cancers such as breast and colorectal cancer among younger age groups.
Adding to the concern is worsening air quality. Long-term exposure to pollution has been linked to a 15–30% higher risk of lung cancer, even among non-smokers. “Pollution is now a significant risk factor that cannot be ignored,” said Dr Nilesh Lokeshwar of Zen Multispeciality Hospital.
Prevention and early detection crucial
“Symptoms like non-healing mouth ulcers, red or white patches, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained lumps should never be ignored,” he added. “Avoiding tobacco and alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and regular screenings can go a long way in prevention.”
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Need for stronger healthcare systems
As the World Health Organization continues to promote “Health for All,” Mumbai’s dual challenge—managing hospital capacity while tackling rising lifestyle diseases—highlights the urgent need for awareness, early diagnosis and stronger preventive healthcare systems.
This World Health Day, the message is clear: in a city that never slows down, ignoring health risks is no longer an option.
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