60% of Indians constantly worry about getting cancer

Cancer

has become one of the most feared illnesses in India. It might seem a surprise but the country is paralysed by its dread of cancer in many ways. One significant barrier in the fight against cancer is the fear surrounding the disease, even with advances in medical research and therapy. A recent GOQii survey found that almost 60% of Indians constantly worry about getting this ailment.

This is not only an emotional issue; it eventually influences people’s lifestyle choices, mental health, and even willingness to be evaluated.

How cancer anxiety is gripping India

The majority of Indians have a moderate to severe fear of cancer, according to the survey. This constant, neverending fear affects people of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds. People are afraid of the sickness itself, but also of the possibility of mortality, the financial strain, and the lifestyle changes that come with it.
Nearly 24% of participants in the survey expressed a fear of dying from cancer, and 33% expressed great anxiety about the financial strain that treatment would have on their family. Of the subjects, 56% responded negatively to environmental factors such as pollution and radiation due to anxiety.

How is fear impacting our mental health?

It can be mentally draining to always be afraid. According to the report, a lot of people are experiencing extreme worry and anxiety as a result of the impending cancer threat. This mental strain frequently shows up in other aspects of life, such as sadness, trouble concentrating, and disturbed sleep.
Those who have experienced cancer firsthand or know someone who has are also susceptible to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People find it difficult to live normal lives because of fear, which has an impact on their relationships, work output, and general mental health.
“The fear of cancer can be overwhelming, but it can also be a catalyst for positive change. By addressing this fear through awareness and education, we can encourage proactive health measures and improve outcomes,” said Dr Meenu Walia, Vice Chairman- Medical Oncology, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Noida.

Lack of preventive actions despite awareness

70% of those asked said they had not received any kind of screening in the previous five years, despite so much awareness of cancer. Considering how important early detection is to effective treatment, this is worrisome. There are several reasons why people are reluctant to get checked, such as mistrust of the healthcare system and dread of hearing bad news.

Financial fears add to cancer anxiety

The significant financial burden that cancer takes on families is one of the main causes of the fear surrounding the disease. Cancer treatment is costly in India. Many families are unable to pay for it. For various people, the expense of medical care, surgery, chemotherapy, and prescription drugs is just too much to handle. According to the survey, one major concern for 33% of participants was the potential financial devastation that could follow a cancer diagnosis. Fear of not having enough money to pay for treatment is a fear that keeps people in a cycle of avoidance.