The 21st century has seen massive technological disrupt which has come with a huge price. We are increasingly seeing diseases that were relatively uncommon in the past. Gastro intestinal Cancer is one such spectrum, where doctors had to evolve in their knowledge to cope with increasing demands. Gastro intestinal cancer is a silent killer that is on the rise. In fact, it is the 5th most occurring cancer in males and the 7th in females. So, the seemingly harmless belly ache that happens every now and then and disappears with an anti-acidity pill, might not be that benign at all, if it relapses regularly.
Owing to unhealthy diet and lifestyle, there is mushrooming incidence of gastro intestinal cancer across India, especially in Eastern India. Consumption of excessive alcohol, red meat, beef, pork or processed meat, junk food and other additional factors like smoking, stress and obesity often lead to Gastro-Intestinal cancer. Sooner the patient consults a doctor, the earlier the disease can be investigated via gastro copy. Early screening can easily diagnose the problem along with correct line of treatment like medication, surgery radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. GI cancer’s treatment landscape in India has improved drastically in the last decade with immense advancement in diagnostic tool, comprehensive expertise, backed by evidence-based research and patient outcome.
Gastro intestinal cancer happens when the Gastro- Intestinal system gets infected by the Helicobacter Pylori virus. It is classified into 5 primary types of cancer, namely Gastric Cancer, Colo Rectal Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Hepatocellular Carcinoma, and Pancreatic Cancer, each of which should be detected and treated on time.
Dr. Sanjay De Bakshi, Senior Consultant, CK Birla Hospital – CMRI states “Lack of awareness about gastro intestinal cancer in India often leads to late detection. Generally, cancer is diagnosed when the patient is in a late stage of the disease dropping the survival rate. Acidity and stomach pain at regular intervals are indicators of occurrence of tumour. It is ideal to consult a physician immediately and go for a through check-up.”
Cancer Facts & Figures:
· Contrary to a lot of beliefs, cancer is not incurable. It can be arrested and treated to elimination if detected early. Here are a few facts on survival that one should consider before arriving at any conclusion.
· An estimated 2.5 million people in India live with cancer.
· In India, nearly two people are diagnosed every minute with cancer.
· India has a lower incidence of cancer than the global average
· Of the 21 most commonly detected cancers, 12 have survival of 50% or more.
· Changing lifestyles, urbanisation, industrialisation population growth, and increased lifespan are mainly attributed to the rise of this disease.
Symptoms:
· Unexplained Stomach discomfort of prolong duration
· Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
· Difficulty in swallowing of food
· Jaundice
· Distension of abdomen
· Recent onset Constipation sometimes alternating with diarrhoea
· Blood in stool
· Blood mixed vomiting
At CMRI, Dr. De Bakshi and his team continuously work towards dispelling all the myths related to GI cancer. He lists the following common myths which are wrongfully believed by many:
· Cancer is very much treatable. It is neither a hereditary disease nor a contagious one.
· A cancer patient must go through a proper medical treatment rather than believing that some miracle will cure him/her.
· Counselling patients and their families are essential as well as guiding them in following the correct line of treatment.
· Most of all it is important to remember that early diagnosis and quick treatment are the key to survival
Healthy habits go a long way in preventing cancer as well as ceasing reoccurrence of cancer among the survivors. Dr. De Bakshi suggests the most essential healthy habits to be followed:
· Maintain a normal body-weight. Obesity indirectly leads to cancer
· Eat balanced diet rich in fiber, whole grain, fruits, vegetables. Have lean meat, fish and dairy products instead of processed meat
· Exercise regularly for at least 30 mins a day. Engage in physical activities like yoga, aerobics
· Avoid drinking and smoking
· Go for regular health check-ups
Suggested by: Dr. Sanjay De Bakshi, Senior Consultant, CK Birla Hospital – CMRI
Photograph by- নিজস্ব প্রতিনিধি
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