The recent figures have put a spotlight on gaps in prevention, early detection, and care in Jammu and Kashmir. Health workers report that late-stage diagnoses are common, placing heavier burdens on patients and families and reducing chances of successful treatment.
Local doctors and public-health advocates are urging immediate steps: expanded screening programs, mobile diagnostic units for remote districts, faster referral pathways to cancer centres, and subsidies or financial support for treatment. They say awareness campaigns must be intensified so symptoms are recognised earlier and people seek care sooner.
Infrastructure shortfalls are also a concern. Several districts lack specialised oncology services, forcing patients to travel long distances for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery. Advocates want the government to strengthen regional facilities, increase trained oncology staff, and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential medicines.
Community groups and survivors are calling for transparent data and regular public reporting so trends can be tracked and targeted interventions evaluated. They also want environmental and occupational risk factors investigated where clusters appear, alongside routine screening.
Health experts stress that while treatment capacity must expand, prevention remains crucial. Tobacco control, vaccination where relevant, healthy lifestyle promotion, and occupational safety measures could reduce future cases. They recommend a multi-pronged strategy combining prevention, early detection, treatment access, and palliative care.
