The new face of cancer in India: What top oncologists say we are getting wrong

As lifestyles evolve and environmental challenges grow, doctors are now seeing a worrying rise in cancers linked to pollution, poor diet, obesity, and delayed diagnosis, especially outside major cities. But the story isn’t all grim. Oncologists Dr Gopal Sharma , Vice Chairman - Medical Oncology (Breast, Thoracic, Gynaecology), Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali; Dr. Rakesh Kumar Agarwal , Senior Consultant & Head of Radiation Oncology, Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonepat are shining a light on what’s driving this surge, and, more importantly, what can be done to stop it. From the toxic smog in cities to missed screenings in rural areas, from dietary imbalances to cultural taboos that silence early symptoms, these experts unpack the complex web of factors influencing India’s canc