Cancer is one of the most serious health issues worldwide, and in India, the number of cases is rising rapidly. A recent report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) states that one in nine Indians may develop cancer in their lifetime. In 2022 alone, cancer cases in India increased by 12.8%.
Why is This Database Important?
Despite this growing concern, India has been underrepresented in global cancer genome studies. The lack of genetic data specific to the Indian population has made it difficult to develop effective diagnostic tools and treatments tailored to Indian patients.
IIT Madras launched a cancer genome program to bridge this gap in 2020. The project has now successfully analyzed 960 samples from 480 breast cancer patients across India. This research has led to the creation of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA), a database summarizing the genetic patterns found in Indian breast cancer patients.
What is the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA)?
The BCGA is India’s first comprehensive breast cancer genome database. It was officially released on 3rd February 2025, just before World Cancer Day. This project is a collaboration between IIT Madras, Karkinos Healthcare, Chennai Breast Clinic, and the Cancer Research and Relief Trust in Chennai.
According to Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, this initiative will provide deep insights into the causes of breast cancer and support early intervention strategies.
How Will This Help Cancer Patients?
- Early Detection: The database will help identify genetic markers indicating a higher breast cancer risk.
- Personalized Treatment: By understanding the genetic makeup of Indian breast cancer patients, doctors can offer personalized medicine tailored to each individual.
- Better Monitoring: The data will help track cancer progression and treatment responses.
- Improved Research: Scientists will now have a reliable source of Indian genetic data, allowing for more effective cancer studies and drug development.
A Step Towards Affordable Cancer Care
This initiative is a part of the National Center for Precision Medicine in Cancer, a joint effort by IIT Madras and Karkinos Healthcare. The goal is to make cancer treatment more affordable and accessible for Indian patients.
The Head of the Centre of Excellence on Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics, IIT Madras, said, “This database will be an invaluable resource to identify cancer-specific biomarkers in India, which will enable early detection of breast cancers.”
What’s Next?
The BCGA will continue to grow by collecting data from more researchers and cancer studies. It aims to include information on different cancer types and contribute to precision medicine, where treatment is customized based on a person’s genetic profile.
If you are a doctor, researcher, or healthcare provider, explore how the BCGA database can help in better cancer diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know is at risk of breast cancer, consult a doctor about early screening and genetic testing.
Together, we can improve cancer care in India and save lives!
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