Health experts in Bengaluru have expressed concern about the increasing number of cases of lung cancer among women and non-smokers. A recent study conducted by the Indian Cancer Society found that lung cancer rates among female residents of Bengaluru have risen by 20% in the past five years. This is especially worrying because lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India.
There are several factors that may be contributing to this trend. One significant factor is the growing number of women who have taken up smoking. Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, so the increase in female smokers in Bengaluru is likely to be a contributing factor. Dr. Vivek Anand Padegal, Director – Pulmonology at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, also noted that passive smoking among non-smokers could be playing a role.
Another factor that may be contributing to the rise in lung cancer cases is the city’s high pollution levels. Bengaluru has some of the poorest air quality in India, which is a known risk factor for lung cancer. This could be worsening the situation for women in the city.
Overall, the increasing incidence of lung cancer among women and non-smokers in Bengaluru is a cause for concern. It is important for public health officials to address these contributing factors and take steps to reduce the prevalence of lung cancer in the city.
