Understanding Clinical Trials Landscape for Oncology in India
Closing gaps in clinical trial accessibility is vital to ensure equitable opportunities for diverse populations to benefit from advancements in cancer treatment
India grapples with a grave crisis in the form of cancer , standing as the second-largest contributor to cancer deaths in Asia . Projections estimate a staggering rise to 1.57 million cases by 2025 , signalling the urgent need for a robust understanding of this growing health challenge . However , despite the severity of the situation , India faces a critical barrier – the absence of accurate and comprehensive cancer data .
Why does this matter ?
The National Cancer Registry Program ( NCRP ), initiated in 1982 , serves as a pivotal tool in collecting cancer data nationwide . While this is a good start to keep track of cancer patients , its coverage remains inadequate , extending to only around 16.4 % of the population . Accurate data forms the cornerstone of effective cancer surveillance . It plays a pivotal role in tracking trends , identifying high-risk populations , and evaluating the effectiveness of prevention efforts . The consequences of the data gap extend to hindering research and innovation , essential components in the fight against cancer .
The United States witnessed a notable 27 % drop in cancer deaths between 2001 and 2020 , driven by advancements in treatments , early detection , and a reduction in smoking . However , India lacks similar benchmarks , making it challenging to identify the driving factors behind the increasing cancer cases , understand remission rates , and assess the frequency of disease recurrence .
What does this mean for clinical trials and research ?
Despite these challenges , there is a glimmer of hope in the form of ongoing heathtech
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