As public health concerns grow worldwide, cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality, with increasing prevalence in various regions. Recent studies have highlighted alarming trends relating to environmental health risks that contribute to higher cancer rates, particularly among populations living near pollution sources, such as river drains.
Health Risks near River Drains
A study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed that individuals residing near river drains face a significantly elevated risk of developing cancer. The study, published in the Indian Academy of Sciences in 2024, found that pollutant levels of lead, iron, and aluminum surpassed permissible limits defined by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Hazard quotients calculated in the study indicated that long-term exposure to these elements poses severe health risks, prompting urgent public health responses.
Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, emphasized the government’s recognition of this issue in a recent Rajya Sabha session. The need for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations is clear, as ongoing exposure to hazardous pollutants could lead to rising incidence of cancer in these communities.
Government Response: Cancer Care Infrastructure
In response to the growing challenge of cancer care in India, the government has proposed significant investments in healthcare infrastructure aimed at improving accessibility to cancer treatment. Under the Strengthening of Tertiary Care Cancer Facilities Scheme, 19 State Cancer Institute’s (SCIs) and 20 Tertiary Care Cancer Centres (TCCCs) have been approved to expand the landscape of advanced cancer care. Notably, facilities like the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar and the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Kolkata are set to enhance diagnostic and treatment services further.
In addition to these initiatives, all new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) will incorporate cancer treatment facilities, ensuring that comprehensive medical services are available. For those economically disadvantaged, treatment is to be subsidized or completely free, highlighting the government’s commitment to equitable healthcare access.
Comprehensive Healthcare Schemes
The Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY) exemplifies a significant stride towards making healthcare accessible for all demographics, particularly benefiting lower-income families. This scheme provides annual coverage of up to ₹5 lakh for secondary and tertiary care, earning trust from millions of Indians. The initiative recently expanded its coverage to senior citizens aged 70 and above, reflecting the government’s intent to cater to the increasingly aging population.
Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) aims to establish accessible pharmacy outlets to provide affordable medications. As of February 2025, over 15,000 Janaushadhi Kendras have made quality generic medicines, including cancer treatment drugs, available to the public at subsidized prices. The Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) initiative has also been launched, offering significant discounts on critical medications for cancer and other diseases.
As India grapples with rising cancer rates primarily influenced by environmental factors such as pollution, proactive measures regarding healthcare infrastructure and access to treatment are becoming increasingly critical. The government’s commitment to establishing robust cancer care facilities and comprehensive health insurance schemes marks important steps toward safeguarding public health, particularly for vulnerable populations affected by environmental risks.
