The incidence of cancer has risen alarmingly in the last few decades. About a hundred year ago, cancer was not so common, but now every fourth person is having a lifetime risk of cancer. The most important step in our fight against cancer is early detection, which is possible only by creating awareness among the people and by conducting mass screening programmes. In India, carcinoma of the oral cavity, oropharynx, oesophagus, stomach, rectum, colon and the lung are common in men whereas carcinoma of the cervix and breast are common among women.