Aparna, a non-smoker, succumbed to lung cancer

50 percent of lung cancer patients are non-smokers

1.7 million lung cancer deaths are reported globally each year

In a tragic turn of events, Aparna, a non-smoker, succumbed to lung cancer, highlighting a concerning trend where 50 percent of lung cancer patients are non-smokers. This alarming statistic underscores the broader impact of lung cancer, which is responsible for approximately 1.7 million deaths globally each year.

In India alone, 72,510 new cases of lung cancer are reported annually, with a significant number of deaths resulting from this disease. Dr. Kumar Prabhash, from the Medical Oncology Department of Tata Memorial Center in Mumbai, emphasized that lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the country. In 2020, around 1.85 million new cases were detected worldwide, leading to 1.66 million deaths.

Also read: Aparna’s three profound truths she discovered during her life’s journey

Despite the common perception that smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, many non-smokers fall victim to this fatal disease. Air pollution is a major risk factor, exposing individuals to harmful substances such as asbestos, chromium, cadmium, arsenic, and coal. Household smoke also contributes significantly to lung cancer cases.

While western countries are witnessing a decline in lung cancer incidence, India is experiencing an increase. The need for awareness and early detection is crucial, as timely and appropriate treatment can significantly improve survival rates.

Aparna’s story serves as a poignant reminder that lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of their smoking habits, and highlights the urgent need to address environmental and occupational hazards contributing to this deadly disease.