Dr Uma Dangi
The COVID19 pandemic has been extremely hard on people battling Cancer. Many patients faced a delay in their treatment due to multiple reasons including lack of public transportation, and the fear of COVID19 itself. This not only resulted in Cancer becoming more advanced, but also added up to the health burden. In India, around 1.32 million patients are diagnosed with Cancer annually, and Cancer accounts for 8% of all deaths in the country. Moreover, considerable disparities in Cancer care between urban and rural areas exist due to lack of awareness and limited access to healthcare.
It is important to note that it is possible to beat cancer and lead a normal healthy life. There are certain steps one can take to improve the odds and be one step ahead of your opponent – Cancer.
Listed below are some ways that can help you fight back and survive Cancer.
(Also Read: Cancer cases rising during pandemic, here’s why early diagnosis is crucial)
Early Detection And Early Intervention
Early detection is the key to surviving. Cancer can be cured with timely treatment in its early stage. For early detection, it is most important to NOT IGNORE the signs and symptoms. Delay in reporting symptoms is a common cause of delay in detection of Cancer.
Common symptoms
* A hard lump or a swelling
* A nonhealing Ulcer
* Persistent cough or hoarseness of voice
* Difficulty in swallowing
* Bleeding from any site
* Weight loss
* Fever which is not responding to antibiotics.
According to ICMR, India has been able to reduce the mortality related to Cancer in the past 10-15 yrs. The credit goes to the efforts put by various Cancer groups, Cancer survivors, and healthcare providers who have conducted various awareness programs guiding people for early detection. Remember, early detection is extremely vital to save lives.
(Also Read: World Cancer Day: Indian youngsters lack awareness about breast and cervical cancers, says survey)
Find A Hospital That Specializes In Your Type Of Cancer
It is important to consult an expert for guiding treatment if detected with Cancer. Cancer specialists are also called Oncologists, which include surgeons, Radiotherapists, and Medical Oncologists who look after the Chemotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Immunotherapy.
Many times, you will require to see one or all of them for a complete treatment. One must remember that Cancer treatment usually involves a multi-disciplinary approach, and a good Cancer treatment center will allow for a good treatment plan to be put together. Most Cancer specialist centers have a multi-disciplinary meetings to discuss the plan for treatment for a particular patient.
Get A Second Opinion
Some people feel uncomfortable asking for a second opinion. Yet with a condition as serious as Cancer, it is important that you consult experts about your Cancer treatment.
Ask Questions, Clear All Your Doubts With The Expert
The key to fight Cancer is to be aware of what is happening to you, what will happen, and what you should do to fight the disease. This kind of empowerment will come from asking questions and clearing your doubts. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Your treating Oncologist will guide you through your treatment and explain to you in detail
What Precautions Must You Take And The Side Effects Of Therapy
Seek support from friends, family, and a Cancer support community. Cancer patients and their caregivers undergo extreme emotional trauma. They need help at all levels including psychosocial support. You can seek help from family, friends, and various Cancer support groups. Support groups consist of Cancer survivors as well as patients on treatment. They help provide emotional support as well as encouragement to continue treatment. Don’t feel embarrassed to get professional help from trained Psychiatrists and Psychologists.
Exercise Regularly, Eat Well, Quit Smoking, And Manage Your Other Health Conditions
Healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of Cancer. Controlling weight, eating healthy and regular exercise go a long way in protecting against Cancer. It also reduces the risk of relapse in Cancer survivors. Stay away from harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Tobacco in any form, be it chewable tobacco, smoking, or hukkah, is best avoided. Tobacco is a known carcinogenic and increases the risk of many cancers.
Stay Committed To Your Treatment
Whatever treatment plan you and your doctor agree on, stay committed to it and give it your all. Many people do not adhere to their treatment and medication properly, and land up having a Cancer recurrence or land up in the worst conditions. You must believe in yourself, your doctor, and your treatment. If you are having side effects, talk to your doctor about them so that they can be controlled. Keep in mind that many side effects can be managed, but to address these symptoms, your doctor needs to know they are bothering you. If you feel low, talk to a counselor about your feelings.
Lastly, be an advocate. Know your Cancer risks and take appropriate action. Most Cancers are multifactorial having many factors work together to either increase or decrease the risk of the disease. Although Cancer may not always be avoidable, it is certainly curable with effective treatment.
Dr Uma Dangi is Consultant-Medical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Mulund & Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi
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