10 February, 2016

Number of cancer deaths in India increased by 10% from 2011-14

As per the state-wise cancer data of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the number of cancer cases and deaths in India has increased by almost 10 per cent between 2011 and 2014. The report, which was published in the Press Information Bureau, said the rise can be attributed to ageing population, unhealthy lifestyle, use of tobacco and tobacco products, better diagnostic facilities and so on.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly 7 lakh people in India died of cancer last year. The disease is considered one of the major causes of death all over the world. The patients find physical, emotional and social effects of the disease stressful, and those who opt for effective coping strategies, such as relaxation and meditation, have been shown to have lower levels of depression, anxiety and symptoms related to cancer and its treatment.

There is no evidence, however, that successful management of stress can improve the patient's survival rate. Oncologist Dr Asha Kapadia said, "Generally, patients do not have knowledge about the disease in the initial stages. So sometimes they go through psychological stress. They are scared of the effect the disease would have on their families, and even of losing their hair. Treatment is expensive, which adds to the stress. Now-a-days, volunteers are appointed to help counsel patients."

While the government, doctors and NGOs are doing there best to spread awareness regarding early detection, doctors say will power plays a crucial role in winning the battle. Studies done abroad show that 25 per cent of patients suffer from depression at some stage of the journey. According to oncologists, proper counselling helps in improving a patient's compliance with the treatment. They say psychological support may be needed at any stage in the cancer journey, from screening to palliation, with a particular need at crisis points.

Jyoti Nagda-Mehta, a counsellor who works with the oncology department of PD Hinduja hospital, said counselling was as important as medicine. "Cancer breaks a patient completely. Counselling helps them build self confidence and prepares them to face the long procedure with numerous side effects," she said.

Nagda-Mehta added, "Most patients are worried about how long they will live. This is followed by financial problems. In earlier days, very few were concerned about the side effects of cancer treatment. Now in Hinduja hospital, every patient undergoing chemotherapy has to compulsorily undergo counselling."

Source: www.dnaindia.com

10.02.2016

He who knows patience knows peace