Publication:

Survey on cancer incidence around Chengannur, Kerala, with focus on major risk factors

Background Community awareness regarding the specific risk factors that enhance susceptibility to cancer is limited. This survey was undertaken to examine the prevalence of cancer cases in and around Chengannur, including the Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala, with special attention to risk factors.

Methods Cancer cases were identified through direct and indirect interviews with cancer patients and their relatives. Hospital records at the Government Hospital, Kozhencherry and the Health Centre, Chengannur, were also examined for data collection.

Results A total of 285 cases were analysed with 26 cancer types recorded. The highest number of cases was observed with cancers of the breast (18.2%), followed by lungs (15.1%). Females comprised 52.6%, while males accounted for 47.4%. Chi-Square test (p<0.001) confirmed a significant association between cancer type and gender, with lungs, oral, brain and liver largely affecting males, while breast, cervix and ovary were female dominant. A peak of incidence of cancer was observed within the 40–60 years age group. Tobacco use was found to be the predominantly contributing risk factor (37.2%), followed by alcohol consumption (32.6%) and was strongly associated (p<0.001) with specific cancer types. Age, certain chemicals, family history, poor diet and certain hormones were also significant, comprising 17.5%, 16.8%, 14.7%, 12.6% and 10.9%, respectively.

Conclusions The study provides valuable perspectives into cancer profiles of the Chengannur region, predominantly driven by lifestyle factors. Findings recommend community campaigns on cancer awareness focusing on midlife surges, gender-specific patterns and sustainable lifestyle shifts to reduce cancer risk.