PANAJI
Goa is witnessing a steady rise in cancer and diabetes cases, with fresh data presented in Parliament underscoring the growing public health challenge in the State.
Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav, in a written reply to an unstarred question by MP Neeraj Shekhar in the Rajya Sabha, revealed figures that highlight the seriousness of the situation.
Between 2022 and 2024, Goa recorded 5,218 cancer patients -- averaging 145 new cases per month and four per day. The number of cancer patients in the State has increased by 4.88 per cent over these two years.
Year-wise data shows 1,700 cases in 2022, 1,735 in 2023, and 1,783 in 2024.
Alongside cancer, diabetes is emerging as another major concern in Goa.
Data presented by Jadhav in Parliament shows that the number of diabetic patients in the State has increased by 8.17 per cent in two years. In 2023–24, of 66,908 patients examined, 13,475 (20.13 per cent) were found to have diabetes. In 2024–25, the number of patients examined rose to 81,907, of which 23,186 (28.30 percent) were diabetic.
Health experts warn that these figures reflect the growing impact of lifestyle-related diseases in Goa, driven by sedentary habits, poor diet, and lack of awareness. The rising numbers not only strain healthcare infrastructure but also impose significant social and economic costs on families.
Nationally, meanwhile, 44.91 lakh cancer cases were reported across India during the same period, translating to an average of 1.24 lakh patients per month and 41,000 per day.
The country saw a 4.90 percent rise in cancer cases between 2022 and 2024, the data shows.
Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number with 6.46 lakh patients, followed by Maharashtra (3.72 lakh), West Bengal (3.47 lakh), and Bihar (3.26 lakh).
Sikkim recorded the lowest number at 1,582 cases. Among Union Territories, Delhi topped the list with 82,683 patients, while Lakshadweep reported just 91.
The government on its part emphasized its ongoing efforts to strengthen cancer care nationwide under the non-communicable disease control project giving technical and financial assistance to States.
So far, 770 district hospitals have been established, along with 364 chemotherapy centers. Medicines are also being made available at Jan Aushadhi Kendras at 50 to 80 percent lower prices.
Jadhav said initiatives such as the Ayushman Arogya Mandir Yojana are also promoting healthier lifestyles.
As Goa confronts the dual cancer and diabetes challenge, DHS officials and medical professionals meanwhile are pinning hopes on strategies rooted in prevention, early detection, and imbibing lifestyle changes.
