Screening for Cancer should be started early when there are
no symptoms to ensure early detection and cure, said Dr.Bhavna Parikh, a
renowned Oncologist from Mumbai, while speaking recently at Rotary Club of
Bombay West on Understanding Cancer.
According to Dr.Bhavna Parikh, males after age of 50 must go
for screening for Colon Cancer – per Rectal (internal examination), stool
examination for bleeding and s.CEA – Tumor Marker test and for Prostrate Cancer
– s.PSA Tumor Marker Test. For females,
she suggested PAP Smear to be done by a Gynecologist for detection of Cervical
Cancer, after age 45 Self Breast Examination, Mammography and annual breast
examination by a clinician. For
screening for Cancer of Ovary, she suggested Sonography of Pelvis and CA 125
Tumor Marker Test.
Giving a glimpse of the Cancer scenario in India, Dr.Parikh
said there is a significant increase in the number of Cancer cases in last one
decade. This is expected to increase in coming decades. India has all the
facilities to treat Cancer including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Standard
of care in India is at par with international standards in dedicated oncology
centers. Cancer can be cured if detected in early stage (e.g. Cure rates for
breast cancer in stage I and II is about 90%). Cancer if detected in advanced
stage, may not be cured but can be controlled with a reasonably good
prolongation of life.
In her closing remarks, she advised the members and guests
to have a healthy life-style, go for regular screening, consult an oncologist
whether cancer is detected in early or advanced stage and never lose hope!
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