Awareness can prevent cancer, says expert

Expert highlights that cancer awareness and prevention can reduce cases by 85%, emphasising healthy habits and regular screenings.

Cancer cases are increasing significantly both in the country and the State, but with awareness and proper precautions, up to 85% of these can be prevented, said A.P. president of Association of Radiation Oncologists of India D.S. Raju Naidu.

Participating in a programme organised by the Praja Arogya Vedika on the occasion of World Cancer Day in Vijayawada on Wednesday (February 4), Dr. Raju Naidu emphasised the importance of regular physical exercise, consumption of nutritious food, adequate sleep and avoiding mental stress in preventing cancers.

He pointed out that breast cancer and cervical cancer are more common among women. Cancers caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can largely be prevented through personal hygiene and vaccination. Among men, oral cancer and lung cancer are mainly caused by tobacco use, and stopping smoking and tobacco consumption can help prevent these cancers, he added.

Every individual should undergo regular screening to detect cancer at an early stage, he said, while urging people to read the book Cancers – Early Detection Methods – Preventive Measures, which was released on Wednesday. The book, jointly authored by renowned oncologist D. Raghunatha Rao, D. Leela and M.V. Ramanaiah, contains valuable information, he said.

Praja Arogya Vedika district general secretary G. Vijay Prakash said the organisation has been working on issues such as Konduru kidney disease, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia and pollution problems in Ibrahimpatnam, and has also conducted awareness programmes and medical camps on cancer-related mental health issues, heart diseases and women’s and children’s health.

Those interested in buying a copy of the book can dial 9490332600.