KGMU Experts Advocate for Vaccination and National Screening to Tackle Rising Cancer Threat
In a significant public health address, King George's Medical University (KGMU) vice-chancellor Prof Soniya Nityananda underscored the critical role of vaccination in preventing cervical cancer. Speaking at an awareness program organized by the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery, dental faculty, in collaboration with the Indian Cancer Society (UP chapter), she outlined specific guidelines for immunization.
Vaccination Protocols and Hygiene Practices
Prof Nityananda advised that girls between the ages of 9 and 14 years should receive the cervical cancer vaccine, while women older than this age group require three doses for effective protection. She highlighted the alarming increase in cervical cancer cases across the country, stressing that timely vaccination combined with heightened awareness can significantly reduce incidence rates. "Cervical cancer cases are increasing but can be prevented through timely vaccination and awareness," she stated, also recommending that women maintain strict personal hygiene as a complementary preventive measure.
Major Risk Factors for Oral and Lung Cancers
Head of the department, Prof US Pal, identified tobacco consumption and smoking as primary contributors to oral cancer, urging the public to abandon these harmful habits. Former head of KGMU's respiratory medicine department, Padma Shri Prof Rajendra Prasad, expanded on cancer causes, listing tobacco use, environmental pollution, and unhealthy lifestyle choices as leading factors behind lung cancer. These insights underscore the multifaceted nature of cancer risk, linking behavioral and environmental elements to disease development.
Early Detection and National Screening Initiatives
Experts at the event strongly emphasized the importance of early cancer detection, particularly for breast cancer. They recommended that women undergo mammography screening after the age of 40 to facilitate early diagnosis and prompt treatment, which can dramatically improve outcomes. The speakers collectively called for the establishment of a comprehensive national-level screening program to enhance early detection capabilities across various cancer types.
Rising Cancer Rates and Preventive Strategies
Era University Pro vice-chancellor Dr Farzana Mehdi expressed concern over the rapid increase in cancer cases nationwide, highlighting the urgent need for systemic interventions. Cancer specialist Dr Farah Arshad outlined key preventive measures, advocating for lifestyle improvements, a nutritious diet, regular physical exercise, and the avoidance of addictions. These holistic approaches aim to address both individual and public health dimensions of cancer prevention.
The collective message from KGMU and associated experts is clear: a combination of vaccination, early screening, lifestyle modifications, and national health initiatives is essential to combat the growing cancer epidemic in India.
