Follow Us
Manav Mander
Tribune News Service
Ludhiana, February 3
February 4 is observed as World Cancer Day. The Union for International Cancer Control has launched a three-year campaign and the theme this year is — “I am and I will”.
Dr Sandhya Sood, senior radiation oncologist, American Oncology Institute, Ludhiana, said: “Incidence of cancer is on the rise, particularly in Ludhiana and Punjab in general. It is important to address the menace of growing incidence of cancer with urgency and in a coordinated manner with due emphasis on prevention, timely diagnosis and effective treatment.”
“Increased awareness about cancer is imperative, as it results in timely detection, which is very important in cancer patients as it can prevent death,” she said, adding: “We need to address the barriers that are critical to educate the public on the importance of screening and seek doctor’s advice on time. We aim to achieve the objective of raising awareness about various types of cancer and how certain types of cancer can be prevented through vaccination and significant lifestyle changes.”
Another oncologist from the city said lifestyle habits such as lack of exercise, excessive intake of alcohol and smoking increases the risk of cancer.
“People should lead a healthy lifestyle, should be aware of signs and symptoms of cancer, so that it can be treated at the earliest. Cancer, if found at an early stage, is easy to treat than at the later stage,” he said.