Veteran actor and politician Nafisa Ali has taken on an entirely new role for the past few months.
The 61-year-old was diagnosed with stage 3 peritoneal cancer (a cancer that develops in a thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen) and has already undergone three rounds of chemotherapy.
Ms. Ali is scheduled to undergo a major surgery in February, followed by additional rounds of chemotherapy.
She has now turned into a crusader for early diagnosis and detection of cancer, especially among women.
“The reason why I made my story public was to ensure that every woman is aware and educated about her right to early diagnosis and treatment,” Ms. Ali said.
Speaking to The Hindu, she said: “Today, we have early cancer detection markers that are cheap and time-saving. These should be made accessible to all women. The medical staff should be trained to create awareness about diagnosis, which is helpful to all in the long run.”
Stating that she is cheerful and fighting fit, Ms. Ali added, “My family was devastated when they learnt that I had this aggressive form of cancer but their love and support has seen me through.”
The actor said spent “a bit too much time” getting a proper diagnosis, which included a CT scan, rounds of antibiotics, and suffering from pain, fever and extreme exhaustion.
“However, things are looking up after the diagnosis. When doctors told me what all would be required to beat this cancer, I told them to give me a fighting chance,” she said.
Speaking about peritoneal cancer, Pramod Kumar Julka, senior director, Oncology Daycare Centre, Max Cancer Care Centre, said: “Peritoneal cancer is diagnosed by clinical examination, ultrasound, CT scan and/ or laparoscopy. Symptoms are vague, gaseous and feeling of fullness. People mistake it for acidity.”
“The line of treatment is mainly surgery but in advanced cases, we give chemotherapy followed by surgery and another dose of chemotherapy. One should follow a good and healthy lifestyle, and get regular preventive check-ups. Around 6-7 in a million suffer from this disease as per United States data. Women are more affected,” said Dr. Julka.
Ms. Ali is under his care.
