World Cancer Day marked by screenings, survivor outreach and renewed push for early detection

Telangana observes World Cancer Day with screenings, survivor outreach and a focus on early detection and prevention initiatives.

Hospitals, medical associations and academic institutions across Hyderabad and other parts of Telangana marked World Cancer Day on Wednesday with awareness programmes, survivor interactions, community initiatives and renewed calls for early detection, screening and healthy living.

The Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), Hyderabad, organised a free cancer screening programme to promote early detection. The hospital also conducted a cancer awareness walk that saw the participation of a large number of doctors, students and support staff, underscoring the need for regular screening and timely medical intervention.

Actor Chiranjeevi interacted with cancer survivors at KIMS Hospital and said the disease should not be viewed as a death sentence. He stressed that early detection enables patients to overcome cancer and return to normal life. KIMS Group CMD B. Bhaskar Rao highlighted that advanced treatments, including robotic surgeries, are now available in India, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for specialised care.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA)-Nizamabad branch organised an awareness programme at Indur Cancer Hospital. Vishal Akula, a doctor, said scientific evidence shows high cure rates when cancer is detected in the early stages. He identified tobacco, gutka, smoking and alcohol consumption as major risk factors for oral, lung and liver cancers, and called for stronger de-addiction measures. 

An awareness programme under the theme 'United By Unique' was held at Medicover Hospitals. Consultant surgical oncologist Nived Rao Balmoori said India records around 14 lakh new cancer cases every year and that more than 50% of cases are preventable or curable if detected early. He noted that early-stage cancers have survival rates ranging between 70% and 90%.

Arete Hospitals launched Cyclothon-Edition 1 aimed at raising awareness about cancer prevention and early detection. The event, scheduled for February 22, will channel proceeds towards cancer care charity initiatives. Director of Oncology Vijay Karan Reddy said the initiative aligns with this year’s theme, placing people at the centre of cancer care and promoting screening and timely treatment.