Aiming to reduce reliance on Western data for addressing the cancer that impacts millions in the country, India on Saturday launched its first comprehensive multi-omics cancer data portal, starting with breast cancer, to enhance research and treatment efforts for the deadly disease.
Traditionally, cancer therapies in India have been based on Western datasets, but substantial molecular differences in cancers among Indian patients exist, as highlighted by the Indian Cancer Genome Atlas (ICGA), a national consortium of government agencies, cancer hospitals, academic institutions, and private sector partners in India.
Multi-omics cancer data portal is the first platform in India to provide data encompassing DNA, RNA, and protein profiles of breast cancer patients, integrated with clinical outcomes.
Currently, the platform includes data from 50 breast cancer patients, with plans to grow to over 500 patients in the next year. This information is freely accessible to the global research community under India’s PRIDE guidelines, which advocate for ethical sharing and cooperation in cancer research.
The atlas gathers biological and clinical data from consenting patients. By employing advanced next-generation multi-omics technologies, it characterizes the genomic, transcriptomic, epigenetic aspects of the disease, linking them to patients’ clinical histories, including diagnosis, treatment, and therapy responses.
To ensure patient confidentiality, the data is de-identified and securely stored. Authorized researchers can access this data for scientific inquiries.
Based on the internationally recognized cBioPortal framework, the portal ensures smooth integration with global cancer research initiatives. “We have made a remarkable start with this groundbreaking multi-omics cancer portal. Cancer affects everyone, and the urgency for effective, personalized treatments designed for India’s distinct genetic and environmental context is crucial,” remarked Dr. Anand Deshpande from the ICGA.
“This portal will empower researchers with essential data to propel customized cancer research for better treatment outcomes. I encourage everyone to contribute and support this vital cause, helping us speed up progress in the battle against cancer,” he added.
In 2019, India reported around 1.2 million new cancer cases and 930,000 deaths. A Lancet report indicated that India is the second-highest contributor to the disease burden in Asia. According to the ICMR, approximately one in nine people in India will face a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime.
As of 2022, lung cancer was the leading type among males, while breast cancer was the most common among females. Notably, Indian women present with aggressive and late-stage disease at younger ages (in their thirties or forties), resulting in lower survival rates compared to their counterparts in Western countries.
Looking ahead, a projected 12.8% increase in cancer incidence by 2025 is expected compared to 2020. With aging, pollution, poor dietary habits, and unhealthy lifestyles, these figures are anticipated to rise significantly.
