(By Dr Anil Thakwani – Sr. Consultant Oncologist at Prakash Hospital)
As we know, cancer remains one of the major causes of death worldwide. A gap in the development of cancer care continues to exist, with all that progress in medical science. This gap, however, is most glaring in low- and middle-income countries, where the gap related to access to diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care is great. On World Cancer Day, it is important to reflect on how society can take action as a whole to close this gap, spread hope, and raise awareness among people affected by cancer.
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The Role Of Early Detection In Cancer Survival:
Currently, over 18 million people suffer from a cancer diagnosis every year. And if the current trends continue, the figure is projected to swell to 30 million by 2040. More than 70 percent of cancer deaths are estimated to take place in low- and middle-income countries due to inadequate resource-providing health care systems, as emphasised by the WHO. Detection, although the cornerstone of proper cancer treatment is still very much limited due to the unavailability of screening programs in most regions, hence giving rise to cases of late presentations and minimal prospects of survival.
Step Towards Early Detection:
A multi-pronged approach can bridge this gap in care. First, risk factors associated with cancer and early detection need to be heightened as awareness. There is a very strong need for public health campaigns and community outreach programs that spread awareness about different types of cancer and their resultant signs and symptoms among people who live in more rural and other underserved settings.
Improve the access of health care to affordability by governments and health institutions as well as developing new, effective, and more affordable ways for diagnosing and treating cancer, including diagnostics and treatments and more palliative care.
Finally, hope is the essential element in cancer care. We are seeing better outcomes for many cancer patients with the advancement of immunotherapy, targeted treatments, and personalized care. United by Unique and saving lives are possible if we continue to focus on awareness, action, and hope.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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