How many of us have lost someone to the ravages of cancer? I have.
What is cancer? Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, lumps, abnormal bleeding and unexplained weight loss.
World Cancer Day is tomorrow, February 4. Its function is to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection and treatment. Cancer is increasing because we have an ageing population and changing lifestyles that increase cancer risks. Cancer can be reduced and controlled by implementing evidence-based strategies for cancer prevention. Many cancers have a high chance of cure if detected early and treated adequately.
We should: Reduce alcohol and tobacco intake; improve the quality and access to early diagnosis; improve the quality of radiotherapy and access to affordable and essential; chemotherapy drugs for cancer treatment; increase fruit and vegetable intake; exercise regularly.
A joint effort is vital. Together we can reduce the cancer burden in the world.
We can, I can.
AV Rampersad
Princes Town