Cancer is a disease that occurs when abnormal cells in the body grow uncontrollably and spread to other organs, disrupting normal functions. It can affect almost any part of the body and is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Despite its seriousness, many cancers can be prevented or treated successfully if detected early. Observed every year on February 4th, World Cancer Day is a global initiative to raise awareness, encourage prevention, and improve access to treatment for cancer patients. This year’s theme, “Close the Care Gap”, emphasizes the importance of equity in cancer care ensuring that everyone, everywhere, has access to life-saving diagnosis, treatment, and support. Why World Cancer Day Matters- Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affecting millions of families every year. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve survival rates. Awareness campaigns help reduce stigma, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage regular screenings. Cancer in India: Key Statistics New Cases (2022): 1.41 million across India. Deaths (2022): 916,827 cancer-related deaths. Most Common Cancers: Lip & Oral Cavity Cancer – strongly linked to tobacco chewing. Breast Cancer – leading cancer among women. Cervical Cancer – preventable with HPV vaccination and screening. Risk: About 1 in 10 Indians will develop cancer before age 75, and 1 in 14 will die from it. Projection for 2025: Continued rise in incidence, with breast, lung, and tobacco-related cancers leading the burden Common Types of Cancer – 1. Breast Cancer Overview: The most common cancer among women worldwide. It develops in breast tissue, often starting in ducts or lobules. Risk Factors: Family history, genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2), obesity, late pregnancy, and hormone therapy. Symptoms: Lump in the breast, nipple discharge, changes in breast shape or skin dimpling. Detection: Self-exams, clinical breast exams, mammograms, and biopsies. Treatment: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. 2. Lung Cancer Overview: Leading cause of cancer deaths globally. Strongly linked to smoking, but also air pollution and occupational exposure. Risk Factors: Tobacco use, secondhand smoke, asbestos, radon gas. Symptoms: Persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing blood. Detection: Chest X-rays, CT scans, bronchoscopy, biopsy. Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted drugs. 3. Oral Cancer Overview: Particularly prevalent in India due to tobacco chewing, betel nut use, and poor oral hygiene. Risk Factors: Tobacco, alcohol, HPV infection, chronic irritation. Symptoms: Non-healing mouth ulcers, white/red patches, difficulty swallowing, persistent sore throat. Detection: Oral examination, biopsy, imaging. Treatment: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy. 4. Cervical Cancer Overview: Cancer of the cervix, preventable with HPV vaccination and regular Pap smear screening. Risk Factors: HPV infection, multiple sexual partners, smoking, poor immunity. Symptoms: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse. Detection: Pap smear, HPV DNA test, colposcopy, biopsy. Treatment: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy. 5. Colorectal Cancer Overview: Cancer of the colon or rectum, often linked to diet and lifestyle. Risk Factors: High-fat diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history, inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms: Blood in stool, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss. Detection: Colonoscopy, stool tests, CT colonography. Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy. 6. Prostate Cancer Overview: Common in older men, develops in the prostate gland. Risk Factors: Age, family history, diet high in red meat. Symptoms: Difficulty urinating, blood in urine, pelvic discomfort. Detection: PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test, digital rectal exam, biopsy. Treatment: Surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, chemotherapy. 7. Skin Cancer (Melanoma & Non-Melanoma) Overview: Caused by excessive UV radiation exposure. Melanoma is aggressive; non-melanoma types include basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. Risk Factors: Sun exposure, fair skin, family history, tanning beds. Symptoms: New or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, irregular pigmentation. Detection: Skin examination, dermoscopy, biopsy. Treatment: Surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy.
8. Stomach Cancer Overview: Often associated with Helicobacter pylori infection, diet high in smoked/salted foods, and poor nutrition. Risk Factors: H. pylori infection, smoking, family history, chronic gastritis. Symptoms: Indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting blood, weight loss. Detection: Endoscopy, biopsy, imaging. Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy. 9. Ovarian Cancer Overview: Cancer of the ovaries, often detected late due to vague symptoms. Risk Factors: Family history, BRCA mutations, infertility, hormone therapy. Symptoms: Abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, frequent urination, loss of appetite. Detection: Ultrasound, CA-125 blood test, biopsy. Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy. 10. Blood Cancers (Leukemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma) Overview: Affect blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. Leukemia: Abnormal white blood cell production. Lymphoma: Cancer of lymph nodes and immune system. Myeloma: Cancer of plasma cells in bone marrow. Symptoms: Fatigue, frequent infections, swollen lymph nodes, bone pain, anemia. Detection: Blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, imaging. Treatment: Chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant, immunotherapy. Prevention Tips – Avoid tobacco and alcohol – Major contributors to cancer risk. Eat a balanced diet – Rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Exercise regularly – At least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. Get vaccinated – HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines can prevent certain cancers. Schedule regular screenings – Early detection saves lives. How Our Hospital Supports Cancer Care - At Sunshine Global Hospital, Surat, we are committed to: Comprehensive Screening Programs – Early detection clinics for breast, oral, and cervical cancers. Advanced Treatment Facilities – Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy. Patient Support Services – Counselling, nutrition guidance, and rehabilitation. Community Outreach – Awareness drives, free check-up camps, and educational seminars. Call to Action – This World Cancer Day, let’s pledge to: Spread awareness in our communities. Encourage loved ones to undergo regular screenings. Support patients and families with compassion and care. Together, we can close the care gap and build a healthier future.