Cancer rehabilitation in India: Current status, scope, and future perspectives

Cancer rehabilitation is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care, aiming to improve the quality of life for cancer survivors by addressing physical, psychological, and social challenges following treatment. In India, with rising cancer incidence and a growing survivor population, the need for effective rehabilitation services is more pronounced than ever. However, despite significant progress in cancer treatment, rehabilitation remains an underdeveloped and underutilized area of care in the country. This mini-review explores the current status of cancer rehabilitation in India, highlighting existing gaps in healthcare infrastructure, access, and awareness. It examines the scope of rehabilitation services-including physical therapy, psychosocial support, palliative care, and vocational rehabilitation-and identifies regional variations in service availability. Furthermore, the mini-review outlines challenges faced by healthcare providers, such as a shortage of trained professionals, limited funding, and cultural stigmas surrounding cancer. Future perspectives on cancer rehabilitation in India emphasize the need for policy reforms, integration of rehabilitation into national cancer care programs, and promotion of multidisciplinary care teams. The article concludes with recommendations for expanding cancer rehabilitation services to meet the evolving needs of survivors and to enhance their long-term well-being in India.