Over the past decade, a troubling trend has taken root in India: cancer is no longer a disease of the elderly. Increasingly, young adults in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed, often with advanced stages of the disease.

As an oncologist with nearly 20 years of experience, I’ve seen this shift firsthand. What was once rare has become routine—young, seemingly healthy individuals facing a devastating diagnosis.

Modern lifestyles are largely to blame: diets rich in processed foods and sugars, sedentary routines, poor sleep, chronic stress, and rising pollution levels all play a role. Delayed checkups and a general hesitance toward early screening only worsen the situation.

Yet, there is hope. Today’s advances in diagnostics and treatment—such as precision therapies, immunotherapy, robotic surgery, and advanced radiation—offer better outcomes with fewer side effects. Many treatments now require only outpatient visits, allowing patients to maintain their daily routines.

At the Singaraju Cancer Foundation, we are committed to spreading awareness in semi-urban and rural Telangana. Through free consultations, educational talks, and awareness campaigns, we aim to dismantle the stigma around cancer and encourage early action.

Dr. Mallik Singaraju, Consultant Radiation Oncologist, Hyderabad