Despite over 90% of Keralites acknowledging smoking and alcohol as cancer risks, a recent survey reveals 80% still skip regular screening. Experts are concerned. Here’s what’s going wrong.
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Kerala’s Cancer Conundrum: Knowing Isn’t Enough
By a Staff Journalist | June 27, 2025 | Thiruvananthapuram
It’s the kind of news that makes you blink twice: in Kerala, a state often praised for its literacy and health indicators, a whopping 80% of people are skipping cancer screenings—even though the vast majority know the risks.
Let that sink in.
A new survey by the Association of Medical and Pediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK) has thrown light on a silent contradiction. Over 90% of respondents correctly identified smoking and alcohol consumption as high-risk factors for cancer. They get it. And yet… eight in ten haven’t gone for a single screening.
What’s more, these aren’t just people from remote regions or underserved communities. Urban, educated, middle-class individuals are also brushing off routine checks. “We’re facing a behavioral health crisis,” said Dr. Nisha Thomas, an oncologist involved in the study. “It’s not just about access. It’s about attitude, fear, and misplaced confidence.”
Kerala’s Cancer Paradox: High Awareness, Low Screening – What’s Holding People Back?
The Why Behind the No-Shows
So, what’s keeping people away?
The survey paints a murky picture. While some cite lack of time (isn’t that always the excuse?), many others mention fear—of a diagnosis, of the stigma, of financial strain. In a state where families rally around each other during illness, it’s ironic that so many choose to remain in the dark.
“There’s this belief that ‘if I feel fine, I must be fine,’” Dr. Thomas added. “But cancer doesn’t always knock before entering.”
Interestingly, more than half the respondents said they would get screened if someone in their family insisted. That small detail says a lot: community and family still have power to influence personal health decisions.
More Awareness Isn’t the Answer—So What Is?
Kerala has never lacked awareness campaigns. From local health workers to massive social media drives, information is everywhere. Posters shout about cancer risks in hospitals, clinics, and even bus stands.
And still.
Maybe what we need is not just more awareness, but better motivation. “We must go beyond fear-based messaging,” suggested Rajiv Menon, a public health advocate. “We need to normalize screening as a regular part of life. Like brushing your teeth or getting a vehicle serviced.”
From the Streets to the Screens
Here’s what two local residents had to say:
“Honestly, I thought cancer screening was only for people above 50. Nobody told me it's something you should do earlier, especially with our lifestyle.” — Renu, 33, IT professional, Kochi
“My father was too scared to get tested. He kept putting it off until it was too late. Now I get myself checked every year.” — Muneer Rahman, 41, pharmacist, Kozhikode
What Next for Kerala?
If Kerala wants to continue leading India’s health narrative, it must confront this paradox head-on. That means making cancer checks feel routine. Removing stigma. Offering screening camps not just in government clinics, but at workplaces and even shopping malls.
Above all, it means talking about cancer not as a death sentence—but as something you can beat, if you catch it early.
That said, no campaign, no matter how clever, can succeed without people choosing action over denial.
FAQs
Q1: At what age should one begin cancer screening in Kerala? While it depends on the type of cancer, experts recommend beginning basic screenings like breast, cervical, and oral cancer tests in your 30s—especially if you have lifestyle risk factors.
Q2: Is free cancer screening available in Kerala? Yes. Many government hospitals and health camps offer free or subsidized cancer screening. The AMPOK survey calls for wider outreach to ensure people know where and how to access these services.
