Public Relations society of India (Delhi Chapter) organises Cancer awareness drive

" Early detection can prevent 90% of Cancer Cases”

Across the world , cancer is becoming the biggest threat to the human life as it is mostly diagnosed at a later stage of the disease. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) cancer is one of the leading cause of death before the age of 70 years . Awareness about the disease and early detection  can prevent 90 % of the cancer cases;  this was disclosed by Dr Shalini Singh, Director, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research at a Seminar organized by the Public Relations Society of India [ Delhi Chapter ] on Cancer Prevention and early detection in New Delhi on 1st March,2002.

Emphasizing on early diagnosis of cancer, Dr Shalini Singh said, “Cancer is curable and early detection can be an added advantage especially if it is detected in the 1st or 2nd stage. So, there is a much high chance for cure and to decrease the rate of recurrence. Most of the cancers if detected at an early stage can be surgically removed and even chemotherapy can be avoided at times. Usually, Chemotherapy is done to increase the chances of cure & decrease chances of recurrence. There are lots of myths regarding Chemotherapy which the general public has to be educated about.”

Dr Deepak Jha, Senior Consultant, Artimis Hospital, Gurgugram highlighted the need for urgent action to increase early stage cancer detection, screening, and diagnosis to significantly improve cancer patients’ chances of survival.

Taking place under the theme of "Cancer prevention and early detection”, the seminar aimed to inspire and encourage action from individuals, the health community, and governments to improve public awareness and access to early detection, screening, and diagnosis.

While addressing the seminar National President of PRSI Dr Ajit Pathak said: “With this initiative, we want people to know that cancer can be managed and even cured, especially if it is detected and treated as early as possible. By detecting cancer at its earliest stage, we seize the greatest opportunity to prevent millions of avoidable deaths worldwide. Across the country , PRSI has organized this awareness campaign to voice the urgency to prevent Cancer”

This seminar covered all points related to cancer diagnose and its prevention measures. The eminent doctors of the country shared how Cancer can be detected in a number of ways, including the presence of certain signs and symptoms, screening tests, or medical imaging.

“To raise awareness about the major causes of cancer such as smoking, alcohol intake, tobacco consumption, lack of exercise, and a sedentary lifestyle, etc. We are happy to launch this unique awareness programme for the benefit of common people. This will be an insightful programme for people, as it will demystify various myths around cancer and its treatment. “Shared Mr Mohan Shukla, Chairman, PRSI(Delhi Chapter)

Once a possible cancer is detected it is diagnosed by microscopic examination of a tissue sample. Cancer is usually treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. The chances of surviving the disease vary greatly by the type and location of the cancer and the extent of disease at the start of treatment.

The event was addressed by the cancer survivers Ms Ruby Ahluwalia, Ms Dimple Bawa and Ms Kaajal Prasad who shared their inspiring stories. While they fought with cancer in critical situations and now they are engaged in helping others to fight this dangerous disease.