Early Detection Can Completely Cure Cancer: Expert

Vijayawada: Cancer can be successfully treated and, in many cases, cured if detected early, oncologist and Siddhartha Government Medical College principal Dr A.Y. Rao said at a cancer awareness programme held at Vasavya Nursing Home on Wednesday.

Speaking at a cancer awareness programme organised at Vasavya Nursing Home, Benz Circle, under the chairmanship of Dr G. Samaram, Dr Rao said cancer has become a major global health challenge but can be prevented and controlled through awareness, healthy lifestyles and regular screening.

Citing ICMR and National Cancer Registry Programme data, he said more than 15 lakh new cancer cases are reported annually in India. Oral and lung cancers are more common among men, while breast and cervical cancers account for a large share of cases among women.

He attributed cancer to factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, unhealthy diets, infections and pollution, and urged people not to ignore symptoms such as persistent cough, lumps, abnormal bleeding and sudden weight loss. Regular screening, vaccination and timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes, he said.