Press Release

Fight cancer together, say experts

Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 5 Cancer need not be seen as the last word, rather it is possible to conquer cancer with early detection, treatment, mental courage and self-confidence. This was the salient message that cancer specialists gave to patients and their family members on the occasion of World Cancer Day on February 4. In the light of 40,000 new cases in Kerala annually, the programme, Cancer Patients and their Family, was organised by Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) here to address and discuss psychosocial, financial and physical aspects of cancer treatment. In her introductory remarks, Additional Director of RCC Dr.P.Kusumakumari said that Keralas cancer rate can be reduced if appropriate lifestyle adjustments are made. As much as 42 per cent of cancers in the State are tobacco-induced and are preventable. While incidence of oral cancers was earlier reported among people over 50 years, it is now seen in persons above 30 years owing to pan masala use. Restriction on tobacco and pan masala is critical, she added. To help fight tobacco use in the State, RCC has taken the leadership to form a coalition and initiated a campaign called Tobacco Free Kerala, she said. Referring to the role of family members, Dr.Kusuma said that they face greater mental tensions, but their contribution is not often remembered. Surgical Oncologist, RCC, Dr.Paul Augustin said that lung and breast cancers are respectively the most common among males and females of Kerala. In his presentation on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection, he described cancer as a condition that causes chronic irritation to cells. He outlined the different types of cancers among adults including carcinoma, sarcoma and lymphoma, the seven warning signs of cancer and the screening methods in vogue. Dr.Paul dispelled hurry or haste in treatment and said that proper management is far more important than speedy management.

Saikripa, 289, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram 695 038, Kerala || T: 0471-2361026 || E: tobaccofreekerala@gmail.com ||

Retd.Professor and Head, Department of Psychology, Kerala University Dr.Krishnaprasad Sreedhar emphasised the importance of hope for successful treatment and cure of cancer. Speaking on the topic Counselling and its importance in Cancer Care, he noted that cancer can only exist in the continued presence of unhealed emotional pain. Regular massage, yoga, meditation, relaxation techniques and regular laughter will help to lower stress cortisol level, Dr.Sreedhar added. Chief Nursing Officer, RCC Smt.Sreelakha.R detailed the home care of patients receiving cancer treatment. She clearly spelt the dos and donts in the care of patients undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, vis--vis personal hygiene, diet and management of any accompanying nausea and vomiting. Varied queries on cancer prevention, detection and medical advancements were raised by patients and family members in the hour-long open forum that followed the presentations. Medical Superintendent and Radiation Oncologist, RCC Dr.Ramdas.K; Medical Oncologist, RCC Dr.Sreejith Nair; Surgical Oncologist, RCC Dr.Shaji Thomas; Paediatric Oncologist and Addl.Director, RCC Dr.Kusumakumari; Dr.Krishnaprasad Sreedhar; Dr.P.T.Latha, Social Welfare Wing, RCC and Nursing Course Coordinator, RCC Smt.Beena Koshy were the panelists. Responding to questions on financial assistance for cancer treatment, Dr.Latha explained that Central Government provides assistance through Prime Ministers Fund and Rasthriya Arogya Nidhi. The former provides support up to Rs.2 lakhs and must be applied for with mandated documents before beginning treatment. The latter provides up to Rs.1 lakh, subject to meeting the specified criteria, she said. BPL patients with Arogya Suraksha Card can get as much as Rs.70,000 from the State Government. The Directorate of Health Services provides support to the tune of Rs.10,000, which can be availed on the submission of medical bills. RCC runs a Free Medicine Bank in the sixth floor, which functions on all days between 12 noon and 1.30 p.m., Dr.Latha added. Community Oncologist Dr.Jayakrishnan and Medical Officer, Palliative Care Department Dr.Prasanth coordinated the sessions.

Saikripa, 289, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram 695 038, Kerala || T: 0471-2361026 || E: tobaccofreekerala@gmail.com ||

Photo Caption
1. Cancer patients and family members attending an awareness programme organised by Regional Cancer Centre on the occasion of World Cancer Day, February 4. 2. Surgical Oncologist, Regional Cancer Centre, Dr.Paul Augustin addressing cancer patients and their family members on the occasion of World Cancer Day, February 4.

Saikripa, 289, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram 695 038, Kerala || T: 0471-2361026 || E: tobaccofreekerala@gmail.com ||