One of the leading causes of morbidity and death today is cancer. However, thanks to developments in medicine, this dreaded category of illnesses does not always portend the end of the world. The prognosis of the condition and the likelihood of recovery can be greatly enhanced by early discovery and prompt treatment.

According to B.P. Poddar Hospital Group Advisor Mr. Supriyo Chakraborty, “We can broadly categorize them into three types based on the causes of cancer- idiopathic, genetically influenced, and caused by lifestyle. Avoiding bad habits like smoking, binge drinking, and chewing tobacco or pan masala will help prevent lifestyle-induced malignancies. However, routine screening tests can identify malignancies that are genetically driven”.

It has been observed a lot of non-alcoholic liver cancer patients with no family history and non-smokers with lung cancer. When the source is unknown, this kind of cancer may develop on its own. Therefore, regardless of lifestyle or genetic variables, it can affect anyone at any age. This emphasizes the significance of routine health examinations and screenings.

Every person over 35 is advised to have a periodic screening test performed. The list of yearly tests that need to be performed is Chest X-ray, whole abdomen USG, pancreatic amylase test, urine routine examination, culture sensitivity, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

Additionally, women should have regular Pap smears and mammograms, and men should have regular PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) tests done. To raise awareness, B. P. Poddar Hospital is offering a complimentary consultation and physical examination for breast cancer evaluation in addition to unique cancer screening packages to determine cancer risk on World Cancer Day.

The best way to fight cancer is to prevent it. Fruits and leafy vegetables should constitute 30%-35% of our daily diet. They are a great source of fiber and antioxidants. Eat curd, or yogurt, every day.  Steer clear of processed and canned foods, deep-fried foods, and grilled or barbecued foods.

Changing one’s lifestyle is crucial. A more comprehensive lifestyle change includes not just quitting smoking and drinking, but also regular exercise up to 10,000 steps each day, getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night, and managing stress.

Cancer can be defeated. We can prevent, identify, and treat cancer in its early stages with the correct lifestyle, awareness, and routine screening tests.

Priyanka Dutta