Every year more than 14 lakh new cases of cancer are detected in our country and almost 80,000 deaths are attributed to this deadly disease. We might have moved up in the GDP numbers worldwide but unfortunately by the time 3/4 of these new cancer patients are diagnosed, they are already in advanced stages of cancer.

Unlike other common diseases like tuberculosis and diabetes, cancer treatment is time sensitive. The diagnosis of cancer may remain the same but the treatment and outcome varies with the stage in which the cancer is diagnosed. Lung cancer when treated in first stage gives cure rates above 95% but if it is diagnosed in stage four these numbers plummet to less than 5%.

As the stage advances, the treatment becomes more and more complicated. It tends to become multimodality with patients needing at least two or all three of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Complexity of treatment is also associated with more side effects which may not be tolerated by older and weaker patients. There is also a significant increase in the cost of the treatment which may push it out of reach of many patients.

Inspite of recent advances in cancer management, we are still not able to prevent majority of cancers. But we have very effective treatment available especially if cancer is detected in early stages. Hence our emphasis should not just of cancer prevention but also on early detection. We should make people aware of early signs and symptoms of cancer and teach them how to pick up cancer early. Specific screening tests like mammography should be done at age-appropriate intervals.

Please understand, it is your job to pick up your cancer early. A doctor can only treat a cancer at the stage at which the patient brings it to them. You should listen to your body and get yourself tested regularly. Only right treatment at the right time at the right place by the right doctor can give you the best outcome for your cancer treatment.