An ICMR study links high cancer risk to toxic metal exposure near river drains. The government is expanding cancer care facilities and affordable treatment schemes to address the growing burden.

A 2024 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), published in the Indian Academy of Sciences, revealed that people living near river drains face a high risk of cancer, with hazardous metal levels—lead, iron, and aluminum—exceeding Central Pollution Control Board limits. Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav shared this in the Rajya Sabha on March 11, 2025. 

To strengthen cancer care, the government has approved 19 State Cancer Institutes and 20 Tertiary Cancer Centres, along with facilities in all 22 new AIIMS. Cancer treatment is covered under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, benefiting 55 crore people. Additionally, over 15,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras and 222 AMRIT pharmacies provide affordable cancer medicines nationwide.

(Source:https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/people-living-near-river-drains-are-at-elevated-risk-of-developing-cancer-icmr/article69317883.ece )