Tobacco responsible for one-third of all cancers

Chandigarh, Nov 8 (UNI) Tobacco, which is responsible for one-third of all the cancers and almost 50 per cent of cancers of mouth, lung, larynx and esophagus in males could be prevented with the individual's determination and attitude.

Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research director Dr Talwar said cancer awareness is necessary for early detection and prevention of this dreadful disease. Early detection is very important for achieving cure of different cancers, he said while speaking at the National Cancer Awareness Day function yesterday.

Dr SC Sharma, Head, Department of radiotherapy in its introductory remarks said cancer is a growing problem in India and at present is sixth most common cause of human mortality. Nearly seven to eight lakh new cases diagnosed every year and nearly 25 lakh cases present at one point of the time.

Dr F D Patel, Professor in the Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology said breast and cervix are the two common cancers among women in India.

She said cancer of cervix is most common among women of low socio-economic status and is a result of poor hygiene, infection, early sexual activity, early marriage and large number of children.

Cancer of breast, which is second most common among females, however, first in urban women is related to un-opposed action of estrogen.

Dr Patel said both these cancers could be detected early and could be cured in more than 80 per cent of the cases with modern treatment modalities.

The National Cancer Control Programme was started in 1984 for developing strategies for prevention and treatment of this dreadful disease.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had declared Seventh November as National Cancer Awareness Day in 2001.

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