The incidence of colorectal cancer is said to be increasing in the State like breast cancer, and if detected early, both can be treated, Moni Kuriakose Abraham, Director, Cochin Cancer Research Centre (CCRC), has said.
On World Cancer Day, which falls on February 4, it is a reminder that screening and awareness are the mantras to be adopted for cancer control. The government is likely to include screening for colorectal cancers as one of the preventive measures to detect treatable cancers. Measures would be included at the clinical level to begin with.
As part of preventive measures, CCRC has already begun the District Cancer Control Programme (DCCP) under which all doctors at primary health centres have been trained for identifying cancer symptoms. Biopsies can be done at taluk hospitals.
The DCCP will attempt to implement the State government’s 2030 vision for cancer control, said Dr. Abraham. The district, with a population of 32.8 lakh, is estimated to have 5,400 new cancer patients every year and 16,200 patients living with cancer at any given time.
Among the many objects of the programme include improving cancer literacy among the public, creating awareness on early warning signs among primary care physicians, integrating cancer surveillance with palliative care network and setting up a population-based cancer registry. As part of the programme, CCRC will also develop supportive infrastructure.
To mark World Cancer Day, CCRC will organise a scientific and awareness session on Monday. Dr. M.R. Rajagopal, noted for introducing effective palliative measures, would be a key speaker.
At Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, a one-day seminar will discuss hair loss prevention following chemotherapy and life after cancer treatment.
