The causes of delay in diagnosis in India range from patients ignoring the symptoms, delay in seeking professional help, lack of access to specialised facilities, stigma attached to cancer and of course financial constraints, said Dr Niti Raizada, senior director, Medical Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, Fortis Group of Hospitals, Richmond Road Bangalore
Regular screening by medical professionals increases the likelihood of early cancer detection and increases survival rates. According to national standards, screening for breast, cervical, and oral/lip cancer can be done on those over 30 years old, according to Dr. Niti Raizada, senior director of medical oncology and hemato-oncology at the Fortis Group of Hospitals in Richmond Road, Bangalore.
She believes that everyone ought to receive:
*Oral visual examination (self or by a healthcare professional) for oral cancer
*Clinical breast examination *Pap smear and HPV testing for cervical cancer (every five years starting at age 30) (every 6 months)
On this World Cancer Day, which is commemorated on February 4 each year, let’s examine the importance of screening.
Dr. Raizada claims that screening recommendations exist for malignancies of the breast, cervix, and oral/lip, which together make up more than 33% of cases in India. The frequency of screenings may need to be increased in high-risk groups. According to Dr. Raizada, additional testing and referral to a specialist can aid in starting treatment right away if any abnormalities are found during the screening.
According to the expert, factors that contribute to delayed diagnoses in India include people who ignore their symptoms, procrastinating in seeking medical attention, not having access to specialised facilities, the shame associated with cancer, and of course, financial limitations.
Cancer symptoms are frequently vague, but depending on the type, they may include changes in bowel or bladder habits, indigestion or trouble swallowing, a wound that won’t heal, a thickening or lump in the breast or other areas, a change in a wart or mole, unusual bleeding or discharge, and unexplained hoarseness or a persistent cough.
*Avoiding or reducing alcohol consumption *Eating a healthy diet low in sugar, salt, and fat and rich in fresh leafy vegetables and fruits *Maintaining a healthy weight *Creating a routine of adequate physical activity that is at least 30 minutes, five times a week *Avoiding the use of tobacco in all its forms (chewing tobacco, cigarettes, bidis, cigars, pipes, etc.) and avoiding second-hand smoke as well
maintaining compliance with all required vaccinations (e.g. Hepatitis B and HPV)
*Reducing exposure to both indoor and outdoor air pollution *Avoiding excessive sun exposure by using protective gear and sunscreen
