World Cancer Day | India’s daycare cancer centres: A bold vision but can execution keep pace?

Cancer is more than a medical diagnosis—it’s a deeply personal battle that affects millions. Behind every case lies a unique human story of pain, resilience, healing, and love. This year’s World Cancer Day theme, ‘United by Unique’, emphasises the importance of a people-centered approach, urging us to look beyond the disease.

Considering the rising number of cancer cases, the union government has announced plans to establish 200 daycare cancer centres in district hospitals as part of the Union Budget 2025-26 to improve accessibility, promote early detection and reduce treatment delays, particularly for underserved populations.

Over the next three years, the initiative seeks to expand daycare cancer facilities to every district hospital a remarkable step in bridging the cancer care gap. Healthcare leaders and experts view this move as well-aligned with the ‘United by Unique’ campaign.

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With one in nine Indians at risk of developing cancer and annual cases projected to rise by 12.8% by 2025, these daycare centres will play a vital role in easing the burden on tertiary hospitals and ensuring treatment is more accessible to those in need.

Dr. Arun Kumar Giri - Director Surgical Oncology, Aakash Healthcare, said, “The establishment of 200 daycare cancer centres will revolutionise oncology care in India. Many cancer patients discontinue or delay treatment due to travel, financial, or logistical constraints. These centres will provide chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and supportive care in district hospitals, making treatment more accessible and reducing the need for long hospital stays. By strengthening cancer infrastructure at the grassroots level, we can significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for patients."

The ‘United by Unique’ campaign underpins the need for individualised, compassionate care that prioritises the unique needs of each patient. People battling cancer require not just medical intervention but also psychosocial support, early screening, and community-driven awareness programs, he said.

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Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital said, “Cancer is not just a physical disease; it has profound neurological and psychological implications. Many cancer patients experience neurological complications such as neuropathy, cognitive impairment, and stroke-like symptoms, making a people-centered approach to care essential. A one-size-fits-all model does not work, as every patient’s journey is unique.”

“The government’s initiative to establish 200 daycare cancer centres will play a vital role in integrating neurology with oncology, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive neuro-oncological care.  Also, the focus on mental health support, early screening, and rehabilitation is critical for improving long-term quality of life,” Dr. Gupta added.

A staggering 75-80% of cancer patients in India are diagnosed at advanced stages, contributing to high mortality rates. The government’s focus on broadband connectivity in Primary Health centres (PHCs) under the BharatNet Project will enable telemedicine and AI-powered diagnostics, ensuring timely screening and early interventions.

Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, CEO, City X-Ray & Scan Clinic, said, " Advanced diagnostics, particularly AI-driven radiology and low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer screening, will be game-changers in cancer detection. Daycare cancer centres must be equipped with cutting-edge digital pathology, MRI, and genetic screening tools to facilitate faster and more accurate diagnoses. A well-implemented PPP model in diagnostics will further accelerate accessibility and affordability."

An emerging concern in India is the rise in lung cancer among non-smokers, driven by air pollution and poor air quality. Surgical oncologists report an alarming trend where an equal number of smokers and non-smokers now require lung cancer surgeries, with many patients under 50 years of age.

Dr. Ruchi Singh, Radiation Oncology, Asian Institute of Medical Sciences , said, “Lung cancer was once considered a smoker’s disease, but we now see a sharp increase in non-smokers developing lung cancer due to polluted air and exposure to toxic environmental factors. The widespread adoption of robotic-assisted surgery has improved outcomes, as it allows for minimally invasive tumor removal with faster recovery . Additionally, low-dose CT scans (LDCT) have proven effective in reducing lung cancer mortality by 15-20% through early detection. We must expand access to lung cancer screenings in high-risk populations.”

With breakthroughs in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies, cancer treatment has entered a new era. These innovations enhance survival rates, minimise side effects, and improve patients’ quality of life.

Dr Pratik Patil, Consultant - Oncology, Jupiter Hospital, Pune said, " Precision medicine and immunotherapy have redefined cancer care, offering personalised treatment based on genetic profiling. We must integrate advanced cancer treatment protocols, ensuring that patients in smaller towns receive the same quality of care as metro hospitals. With the government’s exemption of customs duties on 36 life-saving drugs, treatment costs will be significantly reduced, making cutting-edge therapies more accessible to all.

The World Cancer Day campaign will span three years, focusing on awareness, action, and impact. While the government’s initiatives lay the groundwork, collective efforts from healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities are crucial in closing the cancer care gap.

Dr. Amit Upadhyay - Consultant Medical Oncology, PSRI Hospital, said, “Early detection remains the most effective way to reduce cancer mortality, and integrating advanced diagnostics, AI-driven imaging, and molecular testing into these centers will be a game-changer. Additionally, a strong focus on rehabilitation, pain management, and mental health support will significantly improve patient outcomes. By strengthening public-private collaborations, we can create a holistic patient-centric cancer care ecosystem that prioritises early intervention, personalised treatment, and long-term well-being."

Experts call for a commitment to ensuring that ensuring that no patient fights cancer alone, that treatment is accessible to all, and that together, India can create a future where cancer is no longer a death sentence, but a manageable disease with hope for a cure. By uniting behind a common goal, and recognising the unique needs of every cancer patient, India can truly honor the ‘United by Unique’ theme—not just in words, but in action.