The Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI) in Ahmedabad recorded a steady increase in lung cancer patients over five years, rising from 813 cases in 2021 to 1,133 in 2025, a total of 4,830 cases, with men accounting for about 81 % of patients. Health officials highlighted tobacco use—including bidis and cigarettes—as the primary risk factor, alongside passive smoking, air pollution and occupational exposure.
The state government, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Health Minister Praful Pansheriya, reaffirmed its commitment to provide optimal treatment for serious diseases such as lung cancer. GCRI offers advanced diagnostics and therapies, including robotic surgery, PET‑CT, 3 Tesla MRI, CyberKnife and immunotherapy, many of which are free or subsidised under the PMJAY‑MA scheme. The initiative was launched on World Lung Cancer Day to encourage quitting tobacco, early screening and prompt medical attention.
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Bhupendra Patel · Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute · Gujarat government · Praful Pansheriya