Critical Report Finding:
NAMS’s latest analysis identifies inadequate diagnostic services as a major deficiency in India’s cancer treatment infrastructure.
About NAMS:
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India’s apex institution promoting medical excellence for societal benefit.
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Originally established as the Indian Academy of Medical Sciences (April 21, 1961) under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.
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Renamed NAMS on November 16, 1976.
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Officially designated by the Government of India as the nodal agency for continuing education for medical and health professionals.
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Advises the Indian government on national health policy and planning.
Core Functions:
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Organizes nationwide Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs, workshops, and symposia.
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Expands CME accessibility via tele-linkages between medical colleges and integration with the National Knowledge Network.
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Disseminates medical advancements through publications (journals, monographs).
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Confers prestigious fellowships and awards on distinguished biomedical scientists.
NAMS Task Force Report: Breast Cancer in India
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Annual Incidence: ~200,000 new cancer cases recorded nationally.
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Global Context: Asia bears 50% of global cancer cases and 58% of cancer deaths.
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National Ranking: India ranks 3rd globally in cancer incidence (after China & USA).
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Projection: Cancer burden estimated to rise 57.5% by 2040 (reaching 2.08 million cases).
Breast Cancer Specifics:
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Most prevalent cancer and leading cancer-related cause of death among Indian women.
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Early Onset: Higher proportion of younger patients vs. high-income nations.
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Late Diagnosis: >60% present at Stage 3/4 (vs. ~60% diagnosed at Stage 0/1 in the US).
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Treatment Delays: >50% patients seek medical care >3 months post-symptom onset.
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Survival Gap: Lower survival rates vs. Western nations due to:
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Advanced-stage detection
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Delayed treatment initiation
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Insufficient/fragmented therapy
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FAQs
Q1: What designation did NAMS hold upon its initial registration in 1961?
A: Indian Academy of Medical Sciences.
Q2: Which legislation governed NAMS’s registration?
A: Societies Registration Act, XXI of 1860.
Q3: Per the NAMS Breast Cancer Report, what is India’s approximate annual new cancer case count?
A: Roughly 200,000.