CME sheds light on role of early detection in cancer

Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC), a leading institution in cancer care and research, stepped up its efforts to raise awareness on cancer care by organising a continuing medical education (CME) programme in collaboration with the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Karnal.

From learning about the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer and saving surgeries to exploring the FAQs on childhood cancer, Dr KMM Vishvak Chanthar, chief of breast surgical oncology, RGCIRC, and Dr Sandeep Jain, senior consultant, paediatric hematology oncology and BMT, RGCIRC, respectively, apprised healthcare professionals about the rising burden of cancer in the country during the programme.

“Breast cancer, if detected at stage I, offers a five-year survival rate of up to 98 per cent to 100 per cent This highlights the immense importance of awareness and vigilance,” said Dr Chanthar. He stressed that self-breast examination and a high index of suspicion enable women to identify abnormalities — whether lumps, skin discoloration, or unusual discharge — at a much earlier and more treatable stage.

Dr Chanthar said, “A triple assessment — encompassing clinical evaluation, imaging and needle biopsy — can aid in accurately confirming the diagnosis with nearly 99 per cent accuracy. With advances in oncoplastic and fluorescence-guided techniques, many women can avoid extensive operations, retaining both their natural appearance and their quality of life.”

Addressing participants on the occasion Dr Sandeep Jain said, “Each child’s cancer is unique. The treatment plans must be tailored as per child’s specific needs.”

Haryana Tribune