Mandvi Singh, Managing Editor

At present when the world is faced with the rising prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases, cancer, including diabetes and hypertension seems to take the center stage. Cancer development influenced by several lifestyle choices, genetics, environmental exposures, and infections is a critical healthcare problem. In India, the estimated number of new cancer cases is projected to be 1.57 million in 2025, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research – National Cancer Registry Programme (ICMR NCRP). This represents an increase from 1.46 million cases in 2022. 

The year 2025 is expected to be transformative for cancer care, bringing both challenges and opportunities for growth. The oncology healthcare sector is actively working to enhance its capabilities. The landscape of oncology in 2025 will be characterized by continued innovation in established therapies, such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and the emergence of entirely new approaches, including innovative vaccines and advances in DNA/RNA editing. Numerous vaccines are currently undergoing clinical trials for a variety of cancers. After decades of setbacks, scientists are finally witnessing promising results, making 2025 likely to be a breakthrough year for cancer immunotherapy.

Moreover, the Union Budget for 2025-26 highlights the Government of India's commitment to improving cancer care through several key initiatives, including the establishment of Day Care Cancer Centres. The government aims to set up these centres in all district hospitals over the next three years, with 200 centres planned for the 2025-26 period. However, India faces a significant shortage of oncologists, with roughly 2,000 trained oncologists available for a vast number of cancer patients. This results in a doctor-patient ratio of approximately 1:2,000. The demand for oncologists is expected to increase substantially, with estimates suggesting a need for over 5,000 by 2022 and more than 10,000 by 2030.

 In this edition of ‘Top 10 Prominent Oncologists – 2025’, siliconindia aims to celebrate a selection of renowned oncologists, recognizing their valuable contributions to patient care and the healthcare industry.

Do read to know more about them and share your valuable feedback!