November 06, 2001

COMMEMORATIVE POSTAGE STAMP ON CANCER AWARENESS DAY

    The Minister of State for Communications Shri Tapan Sikdar will release a commemorative postage stamp on Cancer Awareness Day at a function here on 7^th November, 2001. Issued by the Department of Posts (DoP), the stamp is in the denomination of Rs.4/-.

    Cancer, a malignant growth of epithelial cells, is one of the major non-communicable diseases spreading its tentacles all over the world and its growth incidence is a cause for alarm. Cancers in all forms are causing about 12% of deaths throughout the world. It is estimated that there are nearly 15-20 lakhs of cancer cases at any given point of time. Over 7 lakh new cases of cancer and 3 lakhs deaths occur annually due to cancer. Data indicates that the leading sites of cancer have remained unchanged over the years, i.e. oral cavity, lungs, esophagus and stomach amongst men and cervix, breast and oral cavity amongst women. `

    Cancer usually occurs in the later years of life and with increase in life expectancy, it is all the more important that people are made aware of the fact that the disease is invariably curable if detected in early stages. National Cancer Control Programme was initiated by the Ministry of Health in 1975 with the objectives of spreading education and awareness, early detection by screening and self examination methods, strengthening of existing treatment facilities, skill upgradation of doctors and paramedical personnel.

    The First Day Cover alongwith the information sheet will be available on sale at all Philatelic Bureaux/Counters and at selected Post Offices.