Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. It accounts for 7.4 million deaths (around 13% of all deaths) in 2004. Cancer often creates fear which comes out of ignorance and misconception. More than 30% of cancer cases could be prevented by modifying lifestyle or avoiding key risk factors. About 1/3rd of cancer cases could be reduced if cases are treated and detected at an early stage.
Objectives of the Cancer Awareness and Educational Programmes:
- To create awareness of the disease.
- To help people recognize the early signs and symptoms of cancer, thus enabling them to seek treatment at an early stage. The programme encourages the participants to seek prompt medical attention for symptoms which may include lumps, sores, bleeding, hoarseness, weight loss and persistent indigestion/cough/pain, etc.
- To educate people about the key risk factors of cancer since more than 30% of cancer cases could be prevented by modifying lifestyle or avoiding the key risk factors.
- To inform people about the importance of cancer check-ups at an early stage.
These help citizens become aware of the importance of battling cancer. Various NGOs like the Indian Cancer Society, the Cpaa etc. have been working towards eradicating this disease from our country.
IDP 