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.
