Rapid rise in lung cancer cases among women in Karnataka

The rapid increase in lung cancer cases among women in Karnataka has become a matter of concern. This trend is particularly evident in the city of Bengaluru. According to data from the state government-run Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO), the average annual age-adjusted rate (AAR) of lung cancer in women has increased by 4.8%.

In comparison, an increase of 1.6% was noted in this rate among men. Although overall figures show that the burden of lung cancer remains higher among men, there is concern in the medical community due to the faster pace of increase in cases among women.

According to the report by the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, approximately 5,503 new cases of lung cancer were recorded in Karnataka in the year 2025. Lung cancer accounted for 6.1% of all types of cancer cases recorded in the state.

To draw attention, the month of November is observed as 'Lung Cancer Awareness Month'. According to a report by The Hindu, this data highlights the increasing risks to women's health in the state.