Introduction to Cancer

Cancer is a disease characterised by uncontrolled division and growth of abnormal cells in the body. These cancerous cells can spread and invade other healthy tissues. Cancer is caused by damage to DNA that controls cell growth and division. This DNA damage can be inherited or more commonly, caused by environmental exposures like tobacco, UV radiation, chemicals, infections, etc. Cancer remains one of the biggest health concerns in India, with over 1 million new cases being diagnosed every year. While cancer incidences are rising, awareness about the disease still remains low, especially in rural areas and smaller towns. The Best Oncologists in Bangalore have a pivotal role to play in driving greater cancer awareness across the country.

Late Diagnosis Hampers Outcomes

A key issue plaguing cancer care in India is the late diagnosis of the disease. Nearly 70% of cancer patients in India are diagnosed in advanced stages (stages III or IV) when the cancer has already metastasized and lower survival rates. This is in stark contrast to developed nations like the USA where only 10-30% of cases are diagnosed in late stages.

The dismally low awareness about cancer symptoms and screening is a prime reason why patients do not approach doctors during early curable stages. Oncologists highlight how greater awareness about cancers can potentially improve early diagnosis rates and outcomes for patients.

Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide

While metro cities have witnessed growing cancer awareness with higher rates of early diagnosis, rural areas remain neglected. At HCG Hospital Bangalore limited access to oncologists, screening facilities, myths and stigma surrounding cancers continue to prevail in rural India. Telemedicine and mobile cancer screening camps by oncologists can help bridge this divide by taking cancer care to remote parts.

Most Common Cancers in India

Oncologists emphasise education about cancers most prevalent in India as it can aid prompt diagnosis – oral, breast, cervical and lung cancer are the biggest killers in India. Self-breast exams, pap smears, oral screenings and avoiding tobacco can potentially improve outcomes. HPV vaccination awareness is also key to preventing cervical cancer.

Emphasising Screening

Screening can detect cancers in early stages even before symptoms appear. Doctors recommend regular screening through tests like mammography, colonoscopy, PSA test, and ultrasound depending on age and risk factors. However limited access and awareness hampers screening rates across India, especially in non-metros. Oncologists are driving screening camps, and affordable tests and emphasising its importance.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing potential cancer symptoms can significantly improve diagnosis in the early stages. But lack of knowledge of warning signs again leads to late diagnosis. Doctors advise being aware of unexplained lumps, abnormal bleeding, prolonged cough, weight loss, pain, digestion issues etc. that may indicate cancer. Spreading awareness about such symptoms can prevent delays.

Avoiding Myths and Stigma

Stigma and myths about cancer being contagious or divine punishment still prevail in parts of rural India. This results in the avoidance of hospitals and alternative therapies. Oncologists aim to dispel such myths and misconceptions by improving factual awareness about cancer. Counselling also helps reduce the stigma that patients may face.

Improving Awareness Through Education

India lacks a structured cancer education program. Oncologists advocate the inclusion of cancer awareness in school and college syllabi. Awareness campaigns on tobacco prevention are also necessary. Workplace talks, free checkup camps, distribution of informational pamphlets, cancer walks, and fundraising events further help raise awareness.

Leveraging Social Media

In recent times, social media has emerged as a powerful platform for oncologists to drive cancer awareness and debunk myths. Many doctors are actively using platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to share knowledge, run campaigns, conduct patient Q&As and promote screening subsidised by hospitals.

Conclusion

While India has made strides in cancer care, greater awareness remains the key to winning the fight against the disease. Oncologists are playing an indispensable role in educating the masses, spreading awareness through active outreach and leveraging modern technology for the cause. Multisectoral efforts involving the government, policymakers, NGOs along with oncologists will be crucial to bridging the prevailing awareness gap.