Medical experts have highlighted immunotherapy as a revolutionary step forward in the fight against cancer, but they insist it must be integrated with conventional treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy for the best patient outcomes. This crucial message was delivered during the 39th Foundation Day celebrations of the radiotherapy department at Lucknow's prestigious King George's Medical University (KGMU) on Wednesday.
Rising Cancer Burden and Late Detection
The event saw participation from over 100 faculty members, doctors, students, and paramedical staff. Dr. MLB Bhatt, Director of the Kalyan Singh Cancer Institute, painted a concerning picture of the nation's cancer landscape. He revealed that cancer cases are increasing rapidly across India, with approximately 1.5 million new diagnoses recorded every year. A major challenge complicating treatment is the stage at which patients seek help. Nearly 70 to 80% of patients arrive at hospitals only at an advanced stage, significantly reducing treatment options and success rates.
How Immunotherapy Works and Cost-Saving Advances
Explaining the mechanism of this newer treatment, Dr. Bhatt described immunotherapy as a technique that enhances the body's own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Its key advantage lies in its precision. "It strengthens the immune system, enabling it to target malignant cells while sparing healthy tissue," he added. Further good news came from Prof. Sudhir Singh, who pointed out that lower doses of immunotherapy have shown promising results, especially in head and neck cancers. This approach not only maintains efficacy but also helps in reducing the overall financial burden of treatment for patients.
Prevention Through Lifestyle and Technological Precision
Alongside treatment advances, prevention and holistic recovery were strongly emphasized. KGMU Vice Chancellor Prof. Soniya Nityananda advised significant lifestyle modifications. She recommended avoiding processed foods like pizza, burgers, and noodles and instead opting for seasonal fruits, green vegetables, and other immunity-boosting foods. Regular exercise for 30 to 60 minutes daily was also underscored as essential for both prevention and supporting recovery. On the technological front, Dr. Shaleen Kumar, head of radiotherapy at SGPGI, noted that modern advances have made cancer treatment more precise than ever before. Insights on improving cancer care infrastructure were also shared by Dr. VK Mishra from Tata Memorial Hospital in Varanasi.
The conclave served as a vital reminder that while breakthroughs like immunotherapy offer new hope, a combined strategy of early detection, multimodal treatment, and healthy living remains the cornerstone of effective cancer care in India.
