Every year on National Cancer Awareness Day, India pauses to shed light on one of the most pressing health challenges of our time- Cancer.
Observed on November 7, this day serves as a crucial reminder that awareness, early detection, and timely treatment can save countless lives.
It’s not just a date on the calendar; it’s a collective call to action- to learn, to screen, and to support those fighting this disease. Let’s learn more about this health condition and why this day matters.
Why National Cancer Awareness Day Matters
Cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of death in India, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020. It is caused by various gene mutations either at the time of birth or after birth. These mutations, at the time of birth, are genetic whereas those after birth are caused by radiation, smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, hormones, and carcinogens.
But here’s the encouraging truth- early detection can make all the difference. Many forms of cancer, when diagnosed early, are treatable and even curable.
National Cancer Awareness Day aims to educate people about regular health check-ups, self-examinations, and understanding symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored. It encourages individuals to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to their health.
History of National Cancer Awareness Day
The day was first announced in 2014 by Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the then Union Health Minister of India. November 7 was chosen to honor Dr. Har Gobind Khorana, the Indian-American Nobel Laureate, whose groundbreaking research in genetics laid the foundation for modern cancer treatment and medical innovation.
National Cancer Awareness Day coincides with the birth anniversary of Madame Curie. Born in Warsaw, Poland in 1867, she was a Nobel Prize winning scientist. She is known for her discovery of Radium and Polonium. Also, she gave a huge contribution in the fight against cancer. Madame Curie’s work was an inspiration for developing cancer treatment with Radiotherapy and Nuclear Energy.
Understanding Cancer: The Silent Challenge
Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body have uncontrolled growth. This growth is categorised into different stages of cancer. When there is an issue with the normal control mechanism of the body and suddenly it stops working, Cancer starts taking place. Old cells in the body don’t die but grow abnormally and uncontrollably.
It can affect anyone- regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle- but several factors can increase risk, including:
- Tobacco and alcohol use
- Unhealthy diet and lack of exercise
- Prolonged exposure to pollution or chemicals
- Family history or genetic predisposition
Symptoms of Cancer
Here are some alarming symptoms that you should know about this National Cancer Awareness Day:
- Breast lumps (in women)
- Non-stop diarrhoea issue
- Unexplained anaemia or loss of blood
- cough (Consistent)
- Blood in saliva
- Blood in stool
- Urination disorder
Prevention is Better Than Cure
In fighting against Cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, habits, weight, and diet is quite important for the long run. Along with them, here are the other precautions which must incorporate:
- Vaccination
- Good habits and healthy lifestyle
- Regular check-ups
- Quit smoking
- Protection from the sun
Self Test for Breast Cancer
Going for a regular check up is the best way but you can test yourself just by following the simple steps:
- Stand before a mirror
- Get your arms relaxed
- Look for any change in breasts (shape, size, or position)
- Observe if skin changes, sores, or discolorates
- Check your nipples
- See the change in direction & size, peeling, retraction, or any discharge
If you see any of them, it is a matter of concern. Immediately, book an appointment with a doctor and get tested to avoid it becoming a major issue.
Cancer Therapy or Treatment
Here are some therapies or treatments for different types of cancer:
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation Therapy
- Targeted Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Precision Medicine
- Stem Cell Transplant
- Hormone Therapy
Importance of National Cancer Awareness Day
National Cancer Awareness Day is of utmost importance. Some of the reasons why cancer awareness should be paid enough attention are:
High Death Rates in India
Cancer incidents in India are lower than the ones in developed nations but death rates are higher. It is essentially because of the late diagnosis. Almost 50% of Cancers in India are detected at the later stages, that is, stage 4 cancer or stage 5 cancer. Before killing Cancer, it is important to kill lack of awareness and illiteracy. It is important to have National Cancer Awareness Day in order to save lives through self check and timely treatment.
Breast Cancer in Women
For women, there is a scary scenario in India. One woman out of 28 in India is prone to developing Breast Cancer. Talking about breasts is taboo in our society, so many women feel uncomfortable talking about their problems until it becomes something serious. Breast Cancer detection in its early stages is vital to stop the mishaps. National Cancer Awareness Day is an effort to attract women’s attention toward their health. Self test is advisable for them. They can do it at their home and the process should take place seven days before and after their periods.
Lifestyle Choices
Tobacco is one of the biggest reasons for Cancer in India. There are many campaigns around it but a lot of efforts are yet to be made. For generating awareness about early detection of cancer, observing National Cancer Awareness Day every year can be proved a milestone if continued with dedication.
Lancet’s report disclosed that tobacco use can lead to 14 types of risk factors of Cancer. Having a lifestyle that involves high consumption of drugs, alcohol, junk or processed foods, and insufficient nutritional intake can add to your woes only. Unsafe sex, air pollution, and dust are the main risks for Cancer, especially cervical. With the right lifestyle, it is possible to protect yourself and your loved ones from the claws of deadly Cancer. Do not even wait for Cancer Awareness Day, take a pledge to get rid of unhealthy lifestyle choices to avoid the risk of cancer today.
Conclusion
Health experts believe that preventable factors account for 70% of Cancers in India. Out of which 20% cases are infection-related, 40% cases are tobacco-related, and 10% cases are due to other factors. Therefore, with the right information and awareness, it is very easy to prevent the many deaths due to cancer. This National Cancer Awareness Day, promise yourself to switch to a healthy lifestyle and spread a word amongst your loved ones.
