BJP MP Babubhai Jesangbhai Desai on Friday raised serious concerns in the Rajya Sabha over the increasing incidence of lung cancer among non-smokers, attributing the trend to deteriorating air quality and urging the government to initiate a national screening programme for early detection.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour in the Upper House, Desai cited findings from All India Institute of Medical Sciences, which indicate that out of nearly 1,00,000 new lung cancer cases reported annually in India, about 40 per cent occur in individuals who have never smoked.
“This completely challenges traditional beliefs and reflects the changing nature of this disease,” he said.
Highlighting the role of air pollution, Desai identified PM2.5 particulate matter as a major risk factor. He noted that rapid urbanisation, industrial growth, and increasing vehicular emissions are steadily degrading air quality, posing a significant threat to public health.
The MP also pointed out that All India Institute of Medical Sciences is currently conducting detailed research involving around 3,200 individuals to better understand the link between air pollution and cancer.
Desai flagged delayed diagnosis as a major challenge, stating that most lung cancer cases are detected at advanced stages, leading to nearly 70 per cent of patients dying within a year of diagnosis.
“This exposes gaps in healthcare preparedness as well as public awareness,” he added.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts under Ayushman Bharat Yojana for cancer care, he called for urgent measures to curb air pollution, implement a targeted nationwide screening programme, and strengthen healthcare infrastructure and awareness initiatives.
