KATHMANDU: Cancer accounts for 11.11% of total deaths in Nepal, as per the government’s information disclosed during a press conference organized on Sunday by the Ministry of Health and Population on the occasion of World Cancer Day.

According to the cancer registry based on population data for the year 2020, the Ministry has revealed that cancer-related mortality has been over 40%.

Dr. Rudra Prasad Marasini, Director of Epidemiology and Disease Control Department, shared that lung cancer and cervical cancer have led to a higher number of deaths.

He mentioned that approximately 20,000 new cases of cancer are identified each year in Nepal. In 2020, cancer accounted for 16,629 deaths in the country.

The main types of cancer observed in Nepal include lung cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer, and stomach cancer.

Marasini highlighted a higher prevalence of lung cancer, stomach cancer among men, while women experience a higher incidence of cervical cancer and breast cancer.

He further stated, “Cancer is currently a leading cause of death worldwide. Global data indicates that one in every six individuals dies from cancer. Contributing factors include the use of tobacco, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity. In Nepal, cancer is responsible for 11.11% of total deaths.”