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Are Brain Tumors Becoming More Common in India? Who Is Most at Risk?

Last Updated:June 11, 2025, 10:25 IST

Brain tumors can affect individuals of all ages, but some age groups are at greater risk

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reports more than 28,000 new cases of brain tumors and over 24,000 deaths annually in India.

No, brain tumors are not more common in India compared to other countries. According to the National Health Portal of India, there are only 5 to 10 cases of brain tumors per 100,000 people, especially those affecting the central nervous system (CNS). This rate is comparable to global data, indicating that brain tumors in India occur with similar frequency to the rest of the world.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reports more than 28,000 new cases of brain tumors and over 24,000 deaths annually in India. While the incidence is not disproportionately high relative to other countries, these figures underscore the seriousness of brain tumors as a public health concern in India.

GLOBOCAN 2020 data indicates that brain and CNS tumors caused 251,329 deaths and 308,102 new cases worldwide. Thus, India’s incidence and mortality rates align closely with global trends.

Brain tumors can affect individuals of all ages, but some age groups are at greater risk. Older adults over the age of 65 and children under 15 are particularly vulnerable. In children (aged 0–19), brain tumors — especially gliomas — remain a significant cause for concern.

Dr Manish Chhabria, Senior Consultant – Neurology, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital shares all you need to know:

Interestingly, research shows a growing number of cases among young and middle-aged adults. One study found a substantial number of cases in the 31–40 age group, and many were also diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 39, with a slightly higher incidence among females than males.

Different age groups tend to develop different types of brain tumors. In children, gliomas are more common, whereas meningiomas are more frequently seen in adults. Tumor type, behavior, and prognosis often vary based on a patient’s age and gender.

According to data from the National Library of Science, CNS tumors are diagnosed at a rate of approximately 10 per 100,000 people annually in India — a rate consistent with global averages.

While the overall incidence is not alarmingly high, the high mortality rate and the fact that brain tumors often affect younger people highlight the need for public awareness, early diagnosis, and enhanced diagnostic infrastructure. Continued research and stronger healthcare services are crucial to reducing the burden of brain tumors across all age groups in India.

authorimgSwati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More

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