Cancer Incidence Patterns Across Indian States: Analysis of NCRP Data, 2022–2024

Cancer Incidence Patterns Across Indian States: Analysis of NCRP Data, 2022–2024 | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Cancer Incidence Patterns Across Indian States: Analysis of NCRP Data, 2022–2024 Eric Kwasi Elliason, Kulvir Singh This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-9374198/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background Cancer is an increasing public health concern in India, with clear differences in burden across regions. The National Cancer Registry Programme provides important data to track these patterns and support planning. However, recent summaries comparing states and Union Territories are limited. Objective To describe national and regional patterns in reported cancer incidence across India using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024, and to examine recent trends in overall burden. Methods A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using secondary data from the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research. Annual totals of reported cancer cases for all states and Union Territories were analysed for the period 2022 to 2024. The analysis focused on national totals, state wise distribution, and changes over time. No statistical testing was done due to the aggregated nature of the data. Results Reported cancer cases in India increased steadily during the study period, from 1,461,427 cases in 2022 to 1,533,055 in 2024. Most states and Union Territories showed a consistent rise. Higher numbers were seen in large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Smaller states and Union Territories reported fewer cases but still showed gradual increases over time. Conclusion Cancer incidence in India is rising, reflecting both a growing burden and improvements in detection and reporting. Differences across regions remain important. Strengthening cancer registries and improving state level planning will be key. NCRP data continue to play an important role in tracking trends, though more detailed analysis is needed to guide targeted action. Preventive Medicine Epidemiology Statistical Epidemiology Cancer incidence National Cancer Registry Programme India State and Union Territory analysis Cancer surveillance Secondary data analysis 1.0 Introduction Cancer has become a major public health concern in India. It contributes to illness, death, and increasing pressure on the health system. The country’s large population, along with changes such as ageing, urban growth, environmental exposure, and lifestyle shifts, has led to a steady rise in cancer cases over time [ 1 , 2 ]. Although there have been improvements in diagnosis and treatment, the number of people affected continues to grow. This creates a greater need for prevention, early detection, and effective care services. The burden of cancer is not the same across the country. There are clear differences between states and Union Territories. These differences are shaped by population size, age patterns, living conditions, health services, environmental factors, and cultural practices [ 3 – 5 ]. Understanding these variations is important for planning, especially since states play a key role in delivering health services. Good data are essential for tracking cancer trends and guiding decisions. In India, the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research is the main system for collecting and reporting cancer data [ 6 ]. It brings together information from population based and hospital-based registries, making it possible to compare patterns across regions and over time. These data have helped researchers and policymakers understand long term trends and regional differences [ 7 – 9 ]. In recent years, there has been a growing need to look at more current data. Changes in healthcare access, population structure, and risk factors may be influencing cancer patterns [ 10 , 11 ]. Studying recent data can help show whether increases in reported cases reflect a real rise in cancer or better detection and reporting. Many earlier studies have focused on specific cancers or selected regions [ 12 – 14 ]. There is still a need for simple, up to date descriptions of overall cancer incidence across all states and Union Territories. This is especially important for high burden states where large case numbers place pressure on health systems. Punjab is one such state that has drawn attention due to its cancer burden [ 15 , 16 ]. While there have been concerns about possible risk factors, its situation needs to be understood in comparison with national trends. Looking at state level data helps provide a clearer and more balanced picture. This study describes recent patterns in reported cancer cases across India using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024. It looks at changes over time and differences between regions to give an updated view of the national cancer burden and place individual states, including Punjab, in context. 2.0 Methods 2.1 Study Design This was a retrospective descriptive study using secondary data. It examined cancer cases reported across Indian states and Union Territories over three years, from 2022 to 2024. The focus was on total reported cases, not on specific cancer types or individual patient details. The aim was to understand changes over time and how the burden is distributed across regions. 2.2 Data Source Data came from the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research. The NCRP collects information through a network of population based and hospital-based cancer registries across the country. These registries follow standard procedures for collecting and reporting data, which helps ensure consistency across regions [8,9]. For this study, publicly available data on the number of reported cancer cases for each state and Union Territory were used. The dataset included total annual counts from 2022 to 2024, with no individual level information. 2.3 Study Variables The analysis included the following: State or Union Territory Year from 2022 to 2024 Number of reported cancer cases per year The main outcome was the total number of reported cases each year. Punjab was discussed in more detail to place its situation in context. 2.4 Data Analysis The data were checked for consistency before analysis. A simple descriptive approach was used. National totals were examined to understand overall trends, while state and Union Territory data were used to see where the burden was highest. Changes over time were described using year to year differences and percentage changes. No statistical tests were carried out, as the data were aggregated and the aim was to describe patterns rather than test relationships. 2.5 Ethical Considerations The study used publicly available, aggregated data. No personal or identifying information was included, so ethical approval was not required. The analysis followed standard guidelines for using public health data [16]. 2.6 Study Limitations Some limitations should be noted. Differences in reporting may reflect variation in registry coverage, diagnostic services, and data quality across regions. The lack of details such as age, sex, cancer type, and stage limits deeper analysis. Also, without population data, incidence rates could not be calculated. These factors were considered when interpreting the findings. 3.0 Results Table 1 State and Union Territory wise number of reported incident cancer cases in India, 2022–2024 State / Union Territory 2022 2023 2024 Jammu and Kashmir 13,395 13,744 14,112 Ladakh 302 309 318 Himachal Pradesh 9,164 9,373 9,566 Punjab 40,435 41,337 42,288 Chandigarh 1,088 1,120 1,152 Uttarakhand 12,065 12,348 12,642 Haryana 30,851 31,679 32,513 Delhi 26,735 27,561 28,387 Rajasthan 74,725 76,655 78,604 Uttar Pradesh 210,958 215,931 221,000 Bihar 109,274 112,180 115,123 Sikkim 496 525 561 Arunachal Pradesh 1,087 1,125 1,143 Nagaland 1,854 1,890 1,935 Manipur 2,097 2,169 2,250 Mizoram 1,985 2,063 2,114 Tripura 2,715 2,790 2,871 Meghalaya 3,025 3,099 3,168 Assam 39,787 40,721 41,713 West Bengal 113,581 116,230 118,910 Jharkhand 35,860 36,840 37,824 Odisha 52,960 54,136 55,335 Chhattisgarh 29,253 30,014 30,763 Madhya Pradesh 81,901 84,029 86,124 Gujarat 73,382 75,290 77,205 Daman 150 161 173 Dadra and Nagar Haveli 238 252 268 Maharashtra 121,717 124,584 127,512 Telangana 49,983 51,145 52,334 Andhra Pradesh 73,536 75,086 76,708 Karnataka 90,349 92,560 94,832 Goa 1,700 1,735 1,783 Lakshadweep 28 31 32 Kerala 59,143 60,162 61,175 Tamil Nadu 93,536 95,944 98,386 Puducherry 1,679 1,753 1,823 Andaman and Nicobar Islands 393 401 408 India (Total) 1,461,427 1,496,972 1,533,055 Source National Cancer Registry Programme, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). State and Union Territory wise distributions of reported incident cancer cases from 2022 to 2024 are shown in Table 1 . During this period, the total number of reported cancer cases in India increased steadily. Cases rose from 1,461,427 in 2022 to 1,533,055 in 2024. This reflects a clear year to year rise at the national level, with most states and Union Territories showing a similar pattern. There were noticeable differences in the number of cases across states. Larger and more densely populated states reported the highest numbers throughout the three years. Uttar Pradesh had the highest number of cases each year, with over 210,000 cases in 2022 and more than 221,000 in 2024. Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka also reported high numbers, reflecting both their population size and access to diagnostic and reporting systems. Some states showed a steady increase over time. In Maharashtra, cases rose from 121,717 in 2022 to 127,512 in 2024. Tamil Nadu followed a similar trend, increasing from 93,536 to 98,386. Karnataka and West Bengal also showed consistent growth, contributing to the national rise. In the northern and northwestern regions, the burden was also notable. Punjab reported 40,435 cases in 2022, increasing to 42,288 in 2024. Haryana and Rajasthan both showed rising numbers, with Rajasthan reporting more than 78,000 cases by 2024. Delhi, despite its smaller size, reported a relatively high number of cases, likely due to its urban population and concentration of healthcare facilities. In eastern and central India, high numbers were seen in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand. Bihar reported over 109,000 cases in 2022 and more than 115,000 in 2024. Madhya Pradesh also showed a steady rise, reaching over 86,000 cases in the final year. These states together account for a large share of the national burden. Southern states also contributed significantly. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu all showed gradual increases over time. Kerala’s cases rose from 59,143 in 2022 to 61,175 in 2024, while Telangana crossed 52,000 cases in 2024. Although the numbers differ across these states, the trend remains upward. Smaller states and Union Territories reported fewer cases, but most still showed a gradual increase. Northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur had modest but steady growth. Union Territories including Chandigarh, Puducherry, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands also showed small increases. Lakshadweep had the lowest number of cases, with fewer than 35 cases each year. Taken together, the data show a steady rise in reported cancer cases across India between 2022 and 2024. The increase is seen across nearly all regions, pointing to a growing cancer burden across the country. 4.0 Discussion This study gives a recent picture of how cancer cases are distributed across Indian states and Union Territories using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024. The results show a steady rise in the total number of reported cancer cases during this period. This points to a growing cancer burden across most parts of the country. Similar increases have been reported in earlier NCRP reports and match global trends seen in many low and middle income countries going through health transitions [ 1 – 3 ]. The rise in reported cases is likely due to several reasons. India’s population is growing and people are living longer, both of which are known to increase cancer burden [ 4 , 5 ]. At the same time, cancer registries under the NCRP have expanded and improved, which means more cases are being captured and reported [ 6 , 7 ]. Better diagnostic facilities, increased awareness, and more people seeking medical care may also be leading to higher detection, especially in urban and peri urban areas [ 8 , 9 ]. There were clear differences between states in the number of reported cases. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka contributed a large share of the total cases. While this is partly due to their large populations, other factors also matter. These include the strength of the health system, availability of cancer care services, and how well cancer registries are established [ 6 , 10 ]. States with better hospitals and long running registries are more likely to report higher numbers compared to areas where access to diagnosis is still limited [ 11 , 12 ]. The steady increase seen in northeastern states and smaller Union Territories is also important. Even though the total numbers are low, the upward trend suggests better reporting and surveillance rather than a sudden rise in risk alone. Earlier studies have shown that the northeastern region has unique cancer patterns, with some cancers linked to local risk factors [ 13 – 15 ]. Continued efforts to strengthen cancer registries in these areas are important for proper tracking and planning. Punjab has received attention due to concerns about cancer burden. In this study, it showed a gradual increase in reported cases between 2022 and 2024. The rise is not very large compared to more populous states, but it follows patterns seen in earlier studies and NCRP reports [ 16 – 18 ]. It is important to be careful when interpreting these numbers. Without population based rates, differences may reflect population size, migration, or access to healthcare rather than actual differences in cancer risk [ 6 , 19 ]. These findings highlight the importance of cancer registries in India. Even simple data on total cases can help show patterns and guide planning, resource allocation, and policy decisions [ 2 , 6 , 20 ]. At the same time, more detailed data on age, sex, type of cancer, and stage at diagnosis are needed to better understand the situation and support more targeted action. 5.0 Conclusion This study provides a recent overview of cancer incidence across Indian states and Union Territories using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024. The findings show a steady increase in the total number of reported cancer cases at the national level, with most regions following the same trend. This supports earlier NCRP and global evidence that cancer is becoming a growing public health concern in India [ 1 – 3 ]. There are clear differences in the number of cases across states. States with larger populations and stronger registry systems reported higher numbers, while smaller states and Union Territories had fewer cases but still showed gradual increases. These patterns show that cancer numbers should be understood in the context of population size and the strength of health systems and reporting structures [ 6 , 10 , 19 ]. The increase in reported cases should not be seen only as a rise in cancer risk. Better detection, improved access to diagnosis, wider registry coverage, and stronger reporting systems under the NCRP have likely played a major role in the observed trends [ 6 , 7 , 20 ]. At the same time, population ageing and broader health transitions in India continue to drive the overall rise in cancer burden [ 4 , 5 ]. From a policy point of view, there is a need to further strengthen cancer surveillance systems, especially in regions where registry coverage is still developing. Continued investment in cancer registries, better reporting practices, and stronger links with health information systems are important for accurate data and effective planning [ 2 , 6 , 21 ]. Expanding prevention, early detection, and treatment services is also important so that increasing case detection leads to better outcomes and not added pressure on the health system. This study is based on aggregated data and does not include detailed information such as age, sex, or cancer type. Even so, it shows how useful NCRP data can be for tracking cancer trends across the country. Future research can build on this by using more detailed data, including age adjusted rates and cancer types, to better guide interventions and resource allocation across different regions of India [ 6 , 19 , 22 ]. References Jensen OM, Parkin DM, MacLennan R, Muir CS, Skeet RG (1991) Cancer registration: principles and methods. IARC Scientific Publications No. 95. International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon Indian Council of Medical Research National Cancer Registry Programme: Consolidated report of population based cancer registries. New Delhi: ICMR; various years National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), India. Bengaluru: ICMR-NCDIR; annual and three-year reports Indian Council of Medical Research (2016) Three-year report of population based cancer registries 2012–2014. NCDIR-NCRP, Bengaluru Indian Council of Medical Research (2020) Three-year report of population based cancer registries 2016–2018. NCDIR-NCRP, Bengaluru National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research Report of hospital based cancer registries. Bengaluru: ICMR-NCDIR; various years Mathers CD, Loncar D (2006) Projections of global mortality and burden of disease from 2002 to 2030. PLoS Med 3(11):e442 Pramesh CS, Badwe RA, Borthakur BB et al (2014) Delivery of affordable and equitable cancer care in India. Lancet Oncol 15(6):e223–e233 Dikshit R, Gupta PC, Ramasundarahettige C et al (2012) Cancer mortality in India: a nationally representative survey. Lancet 379(9828):1807–1816 Sullivan R, Alatise OI, Anderson BO et al (2015) Global cancer surgery: delivering safe, affordable, and timely cancer surgery. Lancet Oncol 16(11):1193–1224 Sung H, Ferlay J, Siegel RL et al (2021) Global cancer statistics 2020. CA Cancer J Clin 71(3):209–249 Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F et al (2020) Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon World Health Organization (2007) Cancer control: knowledge into action. WHO guide for effective programmes. World Health Organization, Geneva World Health Organization Global Health Estimates. Geneva: World Health Organization; latest edition Thakur JS, Rao BT, Rajwanshi A, Parwana HK, Kumar R (2008) Epidemiological study of high cancer incidence in rural agricultural communities of Punjab. Int J Environ Res Public Health 5(5):399–407 Bal MS, Bodal VK, Kaur J et al (2015) Patterns of cancer: a study of Punjabi patients. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 16(12):5107–5110 Manoharan N, Tyagi BB, Raina V (2010) Cancer incidence in rural Delhi. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 11(1):73–77 Sambasivaiah K, Reddy K, Venkataramanappa et al (2004) Cancer patterns in Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. Indian J Med Paediatr Oncol 25:8–12 Mehrotra R, Pandya S, Singhla M, Srivastava D, Singh M (2008) Spectrum of malignancies in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 9(3):525–528 Bray F, Parkin DM (2009) Evaluation of data quality in cancer registry research. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 18(12):3187–3195 Parkin DM (2008) The role of cancer registries in cancer control. Int J Clin Oncol 13(2):102–111 Curado MP, Edwards B, Shin HR et al (2007) Cancer incidence in five continents, Vol IX. IARC Scientific Publications No. 160. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer Additional Declarations The authors declare no competing interests. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-9374198","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":620660512,"identity":"41cf8a8f-5860-4e72-88f8-5096b19cab43","order_by":0,"name":"Eric Kwasi Elliason","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA4klEQVRIie3RvQrCMBDA8QsH1yXU1aDWV4gUHOurKAUnB8FFcbBScPVtMlc6uBRnwcWPJ+ggKDiYKjo4tHUTzH84bsgPEgJgMv1iUTYkcEI23+uV22WJY1sYy4xQOQLgOhXqV7OtkNi7iJ3GQ6+3QN6enAdenQAPx20OEZsuthLpP8iuoXx9MXLdQQ6RCZAIZPQkQqEmnGoFxLq+yEioWSlCTBOXkPosVXExEQkL9cV8hxDjGlNr/UEFb7ETXKXBzePN5WqeXtW0U7HCwymPALDgvSJ/zNzjn/ryzWmTyWT6m+6uxD5PcrBDRAAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3424-972X","institution":"Desh Bhagat University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Eric","middleName":"Kwasi","lastName":"Elliason","suffix":""},{"id":620660519,"identity":"a554a8de-092b-4ace-becd-2afef0ce4125","order_by":1,"name":"Kulvir Singh","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Desh Bhagat University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Kulvir","middleName":"","lastName":"Singh","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2026-04-10 03:58:43","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":{"humanSubjects":false,"vertebrateSubjects":false,"conflictsOfInterestStatement":false,"humanSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false,"humanSubjectConsent":false,"humanSubjectClinicalTrial":false,"humanSubjectCaseReport":false,"vertebrateSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false},"doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9374198/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9374198/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":106959869,"identity":"421202fc-d11a-48eb-9a12-ec9acbdcde82","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-04-15 09:16:11","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":469951,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9374198/v1/e4418ca3-2446-4bd0-8727-7ef1db37d929.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"The authors declare no competing interests.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCancer Incidence Patterns Across Indian States: Analysis of NCRP Data, 2022–2024\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"1.0 Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eCancer has become a major public health concern in India. It contributes to illness, death, and increasing pressure on the health system. The country\u0026rsquo;s large population, along with changes such as ageing, urban growth, environmental exposure, and lifestyle shifts, has led to a steady rise in cancer cases over time [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]. Although there have been improvements in diagnosis and treatment, the number of people affected continues to grow. This creates a greater need for prevention, early detection, and effective care services.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe burden of cancer is not the same across the country. There are clear differences between states and Union Territories. These differences are shaped by population size, age patterns, living conditions, health services, environmental factors, and cultural practices [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR4\" citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. Understanding these variations is important for planning, especially since states play a key role in delivering health services.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGood data are essential for tracking cancer trends and guiding decisions. In India, the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research is the main system for collecting and reporting cancer data [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. It brings together information from population based and hospital-based registries, making it possible to compare patterns across regions and over time. These data have helped researchers and policymakers understand long term trends and regional differences [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR8\" citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn recent years, there has been a growing need to look at more current data. Changes in healthcare access, population structure, and risk factors may be influencing cancer patterns [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. Studying recent data can help show whether increases in reported cases reflect a real rise in cancer or better detection and reporting.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eMany earlier studies have focused on specific cancers or selected regions [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR13\" citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]. There is still a need for simple, up to date descriptions of overall cancer incidence across all states and Union Territories. This is especially important for high burden states where large case numbers place pressure on health systems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePunjab is one such state that has drawn attention due to its cancer burden [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e]. While there have been concerns about possible risk factors, its situation needs to be understood in comparison with national trends. Looking at state level data helps provide a clearer and more balanced picture.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study describes recent patterns in reported cancer cases across India using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024. It looks at changes over time and differences between regions to give an updated view of the national cancer burden and place individual states, including Punjab, in context.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2.0 Methods","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.1 Study Design\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis was a retrospective descriptive study using secondary data. It examined cancer cases reported across Indian states and Union Territories over three years, from 2022 to 2024. The focus was on total reported cases, not on specific cancer types or individual patient details. The aim was to understand changes over time and how the burden is distributed across regions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.2 Data Source\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData came from the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research. The NCRP collects information through a network of population based and hospital-based cancer registries across the country. These registries follow standard procedures for collecting and reporting data, which helps ensure consistency across regions [8,9].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this study, publicly available data on the number of reported cancer cases for each state and Union Territory were used. The dataset included total annual counts from 2022 to 2024, with no individual level information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.3 Study Variables\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe analysis included the following:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eState or Union Territory\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eYear from 2022 to 2024\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eNumber of reported cancer cases per year\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main outcome was the total number of reported cases each year. Punjab was discussed in more detail to place its situation in context.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.4 Data Analysis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data were checked for consistency before analysis. A simple descriptive approach was used. National totals were examined to understand overall trends, while state and Union Territory data were used to see where the burden was highest.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChanges over time were described using year to year differences and percentage changes. No statistical tests were carried out, as the data were aggregated and the aim was to describe patterns rather than test relationships.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.5 Ethical Considerations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study used publicly available, aggregated data. No personal or identifying information was included, so ethical approval was not required. The analysis followed standard guidelines for using public health data [16].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2.6 Study Limitations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome limitations should be noted. Differences in reporting may reflect variation in registry coverage, diagnostic services, and data quality across regions. The lack of details such as age, sex, cancer type, and stage limits deeper analysis. Also, without population data, incidence rates could not be calculated. These factors were considered when interpreting the findings.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3.0 Results","content":"\u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eState and Union Territory wise number of reported incident cancer cases in India, 2022\u0026ndash;2024\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eState / Union Territory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2022\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2023\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2024\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJammu and Kashmir\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13,395\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13,744\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14,112\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLadakh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e302\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e309\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e318\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHimachal Pradesh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9,164\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9,373\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9,566\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePunjab\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e40,435\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41,337\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e42,288\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChandigarh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,088\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,120\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,152\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUttarakhand\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12,065\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12,348\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12,642\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHaryana\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30,851\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31,679\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e32,513\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDelhi\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e26,735\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e27,561\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28,387\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRajasthan\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74,725\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e76,655\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e78,604\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUttar Pradesh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e210,958\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e215,931\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e221,000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBihar\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e109,274\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e112,180\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e115,123\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSikkim\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e496\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e525\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e561\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eArunachal Pradesh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,087\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,125\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,143\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNagaland\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,854\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,890\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,935\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eManipur\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,097\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,169\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,250\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMizoram\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,985\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,063\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,114\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTripura\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,715\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,790\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2,871\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMeghalaya\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3,025\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3,099\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3,168\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAssam\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e39,787\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e40,721\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41,713\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWest Bengal\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e113,581\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e116,230\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e118,910\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJharkhand\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35,860\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36,840\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37,824\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOdisha\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e52,960\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e54,136\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e55,335\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChhattisgarh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e29,253\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30,014\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30,763\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMadhya Pradesh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e81,901\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e84,029\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86,124\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGujarat\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e73,382\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e75,290\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e77,205\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDaman\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e150\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e161\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e173\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDadra and Nagar Haveli\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e238\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e252\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e268\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMaharashtra\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e121,717\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e124,584\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e127,512\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTelangana\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e49,983\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e51,145\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e52,334\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAndhra Pradesh\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e73,536\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e75,086\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e76,708\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKarnataka\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90,349\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e92,560\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e94,832\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGoa\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,700\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,735\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,783\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLakshadweep\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKerala\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e59,143\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e60,162\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e61,175\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTamil Nadu\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e93,536\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e95,944\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e98,386\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePuducherry\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,679\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,753\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1,823\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAndaman and Nicobar Islands\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e393\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e401\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e408\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIndia (Total)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1,461,427\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1,496,972\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1,533,055\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSource\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eNational Cancer Registry Programme, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eState and Union Territory wise distributions of reported incident cancer cases from 2022 to 2024 are shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e. During this period, the total number of reported cancer cases in India increased steadily. Cases rose from 1,461,427 in 2022 to 1,533,055 in 2024. This reflects a clear year to year rise at the national level, with most states and Union Territories showing a similar pattern.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere were noticeable differences in the number of cases across states. Larger and more densely populated states reported the highest numbers throughout the three years. Uttar Pradesh had the highest number of cases each year, with over 210,000 cases in 2022 and more than 221,000 in 2024. Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka also reported high numbers, reflecting both their population size and access to diagnostic and reporting systems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSome states showed a steady increase over time. In Maharashtra, cases rose from 121,717 in 2022 to 127,512 in 2024. Tamil Nadu followed a similar trend, increasing from 93,536 to 98,386. Karnataka and West Bengal also showed consistent growth, contributing to the national rise.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the northern and northwestern regions, the burden was also notable. Punjab reported 40,435 cases in 2022, increasing to 42,288 in 2024. Haryana and Rajasthan both showed rising numbers, with Rajasthan reporting more than 78,000 cases by 2024. Delhi, despite its smaller size, reported a relatively high number of cases, likely due to its urban population and concentration of healthcare facilities.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn eastern and central India, high numbers were seen in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand. Bihar reported over 109,000 cases in 2022 and more than 115,000 in 2024. Madhya Pradesh also showed a steady rise, reaching over 86,000 cases in the final year. These states together account for a large share of the national burden.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSouthern states also contributed significantly. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu all showed gradual increases over time. Kerala\u0026rsquo;s cases rose from 59,143 in 2022 to 61,175 in 2024, while Telangana crossed 52,000 cases in 2024. Although the numbers differ across these states, the trend remains upward.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSmaller states and Union Territories reported fewer cases, but most still showed a gradual increase. Northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur had modest but steady growth. Union Territories including Chandigarh, Puducherry, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands also showed small increases. Lakshadweep had the lowest number of cases, with fewer than 35 cases each year.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTaken together, the data show a steady rise in reported cancer cases across India between 2022 and 2024. The increase is seen across nearly all regions, pointing to a growing cancer burden across the country.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"4.0 Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study gives a recent picture of how cancer cases are distributed across Indian states and Union Territories using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024. The results show a steady rise in the total number of reported cancer cases during this period. This points to a growing cancer burden across most parts of the country. Similar increases have been reported in earlier NCRP reports and match global trends seen in many low and middle income countries going through health transitions [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR2\" citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe rise in reported cases is likely due to several reasons. India\u0026rsquo;s population is growing and people are living longer, both of which are known to increase cancer burden [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. At the same time, cancer registries under the NCRP have expanded and improved, which means more cases are being captured and reported [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. Better diagnostic facilities, increased awareness, and more people seeking medical care may also be leading to higher detection, especially in urban and peri urban areas [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere were clear differences between states in the number of reported cases. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka contributed a large share of the total cases. While this is partly due to their large populations, other factors also matter. These include the strength of the health system, availability of cancer care services, and how well cancer registries are established [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e]. States with better hospitals and long running registries are more likely to report higher numbers compared to areas where access to diagnosis is still limited [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe steady increase seen in northeastern states and smaller Union Territories is also important. Even though the total numbers are low, the upward trend suggests better reporting and surveillance rather than a sudden rise in risk alone. Earlier studies have shown that the northeastern region has unique cancer patterns, with some cancers linked to local risk factors [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR14\" citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e]. Continued efforts to strengthen cancer registries in these areas are important for proper tracking and planning.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePunjab has received attention due to concerns about cancer burden. In this study, it showed a gradual increase in reported cases between 2022 and 2024. The rise is not very large compared to more populous states, but it follows patterns seen in earlier studies and NCRP reports [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR17\" citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e]. It is important to be careful when interpreting these numbers. Without population based rates, differences may reflect population size, migration, or access to healthcare rather than actual differences in cancer risk [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese findings highlight the importance of cancer registries in India. Even simple data on total cases can help show patterns and guide planning, resource allocation, and policy decisions [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. At the same time, more detailed data on age, sex, type of cancer, and stage at diagnosis are needed to better understand the situation and support more targeted action.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5.0 Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study provides a recent overview of cancer incidence across Indian states and Union Territories using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024. The findings show a steady increase in the total number of reported cancer cases at the national level, with most regions following the same trend. This supports earlier NCRP and global evidence that cancer is becoming a growing public health concern in India [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR2\" citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThere are clear differences in the number of cases across states. States with larger populations and stronger registry systems reported higher numbers, while smaller states and Union Territories had fewer cases but still showed gradual increases. These patterns show that cancer numbers should be understood in the context of population size and the strength of health systems and reporting structures [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe increase in reported cases should not be seen only as a rise in cancer risk. Better detection, improved access to diagnosis, wider registry coverage, and stronger reporting systems under the NCRP have likely played a major role in the observed trends [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. At the same time, population ageing and broader health transitions in India continue to drive the overall rise in cancer burden [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrom a policy point of view, there is a need to further strengthen cancer surveillance systems, especially in regions where registry coverage is still developing. Continued investment in cancer registries, better reporting practices, and stronger links with health information systems are important for accurate data and effective planning [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e]. Expanding prevention, early detection, and treatment services is also important so that increasing case detection leads to better outcomes and not added pressure on the health system.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study is based on aggregated data and does not include detailed information such as age, sex, or cancer type. Even so, it shows how useful NCRP data can be for tracking cancer trends across the country. Future research can build on this by using more detailed data, including age adjusted rates and cancer types, to better guide interventions and resource allocation across different regions of India [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJensen OM, Parkin DM, MacLennan R, Muir CS, Skeet RG (1991) Cancer registration: principles and methods. IARC Scientific Publications No. 95. International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIndian Council of Medical Research National Cancer Registry Programme: Consolidated report of population based cancer registries. 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Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 9(3):525\u0026ndash;528\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBray F, Parkin DM (2009) Evaluation of data quality in cancer registry research. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 18(12):3187\u0026ndash;3195\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParkin DM (2008) The role of cancer registries in cancer control. Int J Clin Oncol 13(2):102\u0026ndash;111\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCurado MP, Edwards B, Shin HR et al (2007) Cancer incidence in five continents, Vol IX. IARC Scientific Publications No. 160. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Cancer incidence, National Cancer Registry Programme, India, State and Union Territory analysis, Cancer surveillance, Secondary data analysis","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9374198/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9374198/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eBackground\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eCancer is an increasing public health concern in India, with clear differences in burden across regions. The National Cancer Registry Programme provides important data to track these patterns and support planning. However, recent summaries comparing states and Union Territories are limited.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eObjective\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo describe national and regional patterns in reported cancer incidence across India using NCRP data from 2022 to 2024, and to examine recent trends in overall burden.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMethods\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA retrospective descriptive study was conducted using secondary data from the National Cancer Registry Programme of the Indian Council of Medical Research. Annual totals of reported cancer cases for all states and Union Territories were analysed for the period 2022 to 2024. The analysis focused on national totals, state wise distribution, and changes over time. No statistical testing was done due to the aggregated nature of the data.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eReported cancer cases in India increased steadily during the study period, from 1,461,427 cases in 2022 to 1,533,055 in 2024. Most states and Union Territories showed a consistent rise. Higher numbers were seen in large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Smaller states and Union Territories reported fewer cases but still showed gradual increases over time.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eCancer incidence in India is rising, reflecting both a growing burden and improvements in detection and reporting. Differences across regions remain important. Strengthening cancer registries and improving state level planning will be key. NCRP data continue to play an important role in tracking trends, though more detailed analysis is needed to guide targeted action.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Cancer Incidence Patterns Across Indian States: Analysis of NCRP Data, 2022–2024","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-04-13 07:15:21","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9374198/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"5c36d315-e90c-44af-a2a6-2c7aeadca987","owner":[],"postedDate":"April 13th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":66052887,"name":"Preventive Medicine"},{"id":66052888,"name":"Epidemiology"},{"id":66052889,"name":"Statistical Epidemiology"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-04-13T07:15:21+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-04-13 07:15:21","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-9374198","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-9374198","identity":"rs-9374198","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}