Jammu and Kashmir Government Reports 32,425 Cancer Cases in Three Years
The Jammu and Kashmir government revealed that a total of 32,425 cancer cases were recorded in the region over the past three years. The most common types of cancer reported include lung, oral, cervical, prostate, and pancreatic cancers.
In response to a query by MLA Pulwama Waheed ur Rehman Para, Health and Medical Education Department Minister Sakina Itoo shared the statistics. In the Jammu division, 6,804 cases were reported between 2023 and 2025, with 2,036 cases in 2023, 2,187 in 2024, and 2,581 in 2025.
For the Kashmir division, 25,621 cancer cases were registered in the same period, with 8,021 cases in 2022, 8,621 in 2023, and 8,979 in 2024.
Minister Itoo highlighted that the most prevalent cancers in the region are lung, breast, oral, cervical, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. The focus is on public education to promote early detection and prevention strategies.
Leading institutions like Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) and the State Cancer Institute (SCI) at Government Medical College, Jammu, offer comprehensive cancer care services. These facilities are equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
Initiatives for Cancer Detection and Prevention
- Awareness campaigns and screening services
- Early diagnosis through various diagnostic modalities
- Implementation of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases
- Referral of patients to tertiary care centers
- Observance of cancer awareness days
- Conducting cancer screening camps
A high-level meeting was conducted with experts to formulate cancer prevention and treatment policies for Jammu and Kashmir. Patients with cancer receive treatment at designated healthcare facilities across the region.
Oncology Services in Jammu and Kashmir
Specialized oncology services are available at Government Medical Colleges in Jammu and Srinagar. Cancer care services are provided at various hospitals, including GMC Jammu, State Cancer Institute, Jammu, and SKIMS, Soura.
The Health & Medical Education Department has approved the procurement of a PET scan unit for GMC Srinagar to enhance diagnostic capabilities. PET scan services are also available at select private hospitals in the region.
