Srinagar, Feb. 4 -- The number of cancer patients in Jammu and Kashmir is steadily increasing, with an estimated 12,000 to 13,000 new cases being reported every year. While this rise is concerning, medical professionals note a positive trend-more patients are now seeking treatment at the first stage of the disease.

According to data, in 2019, 12,396 new cancer patients were registered across Jammu and Kashmir.

This number has seen a gradual increase over the years: 12,726 cases in 2020, 13,060 in 2021, 13,395 in 2022, and over 13,000 cases in both 2023 and 2024.

Among these, approximately 20 percent of patients are now arriving for treatment at the initial stage, improving their chances of effective treatment.

In 2024, major hospitals...