Lung cancer rising faster among women in Karnataka

Karnataka recorded an estimated 5,503 new lung cancer cases in 2025, accounting for 6.1% of all cancers in the State. | Photo Credit: lemono While men continue to bear a higher overall burden of lung cancer, the faster rise in incidence among women is emerging as a concern in Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru. The average annual age-adjusted rate (AAR) of lung cancer has increased by 4.8% among women, compared with 1.6% among men, according to data from the State-run Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO).November is observed as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Published - November 07, 2026 06:00 am IST