Cancer, a complex and devastating disease, poses a significant challenge due to its ability to progress silently in the early stages. Detecting cancer at an early stage offers numerous advantages and significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term remission. Dr Debashish Chaudhary, Principal Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Max Hospital Gurugram, sheds light on the importance of early detection and treatment in the battle against cancer.
The Statistics
According to the National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research, every year, 13.9 lakh new cancer patients are registered. Over 8.5 lakh people die due to cancer every year. Male cancer fatalities from the mouth, stomach, and lungs account for over 25% of all cancer deaths, whereas female cancer deaths from the uterine cervix, breast, and mouth account for 25% of all cancer deaths.
The Significance of Early Detection
According to the World Health Organization, When cancer care is delayed or inaccessible there is a lower chance of survival, greater problems associated with treatment and higher costs of care.
Dr Chaudhary said, "In the early stages of cancer, symptoms may not be apparent, making early detection a challenging task. However, as the disease progresses, localised or region-specific symptoms may begin to manifest. Timely detection is critical as cancer tends to follow a pattern, advancing from an early or local stage to a loco-regional stage and eventually reaching a disseminated stage. The type, location, and stage of cancer play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate course of treatment."
He further added, "While community-level screening programs are an ideal approach, not all types of cancer are amenable to screening. Until mass screening becomes a reality for various cancer sites, educating society about cancer awareness and the benefits of early detection is the crucial first step."
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Advantages of Early Detection and Prompt Treatment
Improved chances of cure
Dr Chaudhary said that early-stage cancers have a higher likelihood of successful treatment and long-term remission. This allows medical professionals to employ appropriate therapies promptly, leading to better outcomes.
Reduced treatment-related complications
Early-stage cancers may require a single treatment modality, minimising the need for multiple treatment options. This reduces the potential complications associated with various treatment modalities and improves patient comfort.
Less complex surgery and improved cosmetic outcomes
Dr Chaudhary said, "Early detection enables less extensive surgical procedures, resulting in better cosmetic results." This is particularly relevant in cases where visible resection is necessary, such as breast cancer. By removing a smaller volume of tissue, the cosmetic outcome is more favourable, reducing the need for additional procedures like oncoplasty or reconstructive surgery.
Shorter treatment duration and quicker return to normalcy
Treating cancer at an early stage often involves a single treatment modality, requiring a shorter duration of therapy compared to a combination of modalities. This allows patients to recover more swiftly and resume their daily activities, contributing to an improved quality of life.
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Reduced financial burden
Cancer treatment is known for its high costs, and early detection and treatment can help alleviate this burden. By minimising the need for extensive procedures, multiple treatment modalities, and prolonged hospital stays, the overall cost of care is reduced. This eases the financial strain on patients and their families, enabling them to focus on recovery.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided by the expert, however, we recommend you to consult your expert for a diagnosis and treatment based on your body type and medical history.
