7th November, 2002
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare  


NATIONAL CANCER AWARENESS DAY OBSERVED


The country is observing ‘Cancer Awareness Day’ today. On the occasion, a book entitled "Fifty years of cancer control in India" was released by Shri Shatrughan Sinha, Minister for Health & Family Welfare. The book is edited by Dr. S. P. Agarwal, Director General of Health Services along with Prof. Y. N. Rao, DDG (M) and Dr. Sudhir Gupta, CMO (NCD).

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said since independence health services have come a long way in alleviation of suffering by public due to various ailments. Cancer can be controlled if diagnosed well in time. But it is a fact that patients continue to come in advance stages when the treatment is difficult.

Tobacco is one of the main causes of cancer and several other ailments including Chronic Lung Disease, heart disease etc. Early detection and awareness can help in the treatment of the disease, the Minister said.

The book covers the topic related to specialties like Radiation Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Medical Oncology, Genetics and Supportive Oncology etc. There is chapter on tobacco control in India containing relevant information. A cancer survivor has narrated his story also about how he struggled and overcome his illness. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre has provided an article about quality assurance and radiation protection. The book contains the details of what has been done, what is being done and what is possible for the future in the area of cancer control in India.

Last few decades have been quite significant due to technological advances in medical fields. Now after the successful implementation of National Cancer Control Programme for more than 25 years, it is time to intensify the efforts for cancer control by adapting latest technological advances with accessible cancer management facilities in equitable manner throughout the country. Cost effect proven strategies for cancer control are required in view of the limited resources. "50 years of cancer control in India" will work as a reference manual for researchers, health administrators and anyone interested in cancer control in the years to come.

Department of Posts and Ministry of Health has also designed special postage stationary with cancer prevention messages was also released today. This is innovative way to reach the masses through day-to-day activities and without substantial cost. India is the first country in the world to have initiated ‘National Cancer Awareness Day’ on 7th November which happens to be birthday of Madame Marie Curie, a Nobel Laureate for the discovery of radioactivity.