Being the second leading cause of death, cancer is emerging as a major health challenge in the country. With an aim to prevent the spread of this non-communicable disease, National Cancer Awareness Day is being observed across the country today.

India Council of Medical Research reports that more than a million cancer cases are detected every year and nearly four lakh cancer related deaths are reported each year in the country.

Cancer rates are expected to increase by nearly 50% by the 2020. Tobacco consumption is the leading cause of cancer and nearly 45 percent of the new cancer cases detected in males is due to tobacco abuse.

In women, breast cancer is leading cancer site and the cases are expected to double by 2015.

Cancer Foundation of India states that nearly two-thirds of cancer cases in India are life style related and thus can be prevented.

Experts say that adopting a healthy lifestyle and increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables besides stopping the consumption of tobacco and alcohol can significantly reduce the risk of cancer.

Also cancer is curable if detected at an early stage and doctors suggest regular health check ups to prevent the risk.