Dr Farrok Karsan, Chief Radiation Oncologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, revealed that cancer is the second most common cause of death and is more likely to be cured if caught early. He was speaking on "Cancer and its Management with Radiation Therapy" at AKUH's 'Signs, Symptons and Care" health awareness programme, a session each of which was held in the UAE, at the Rotana Hotel, Al-Ain and the Renaissance Hotel, Dubai, on 20 and 21 June, 2006 respectively.
Dr Karsan explained in layman's terms to the audience that Oncology is the study of tumours - cancer - and that a tumour is an excess of tissue that develops when "cells divide without control." He further emphasized the need to make use of screening programmes that are of proven value, such as PAP Tests, PSA screening, mammography and breast self-examination, etc, for early detection of some cancers.
Equally important to reduce the risk of developing cancer is the avoidance of harmful social habits such as smoking, tobacco and betel nut (paan) chewing and poor dietary habits. In addition, workplace safety and protection from harmful chemicals, and a clean environment are very important factors in minimising such risks.
Dr Khalid Hameed, Associate Professor and Consultant General Surgeon, Department of Surgery at AKUH, also spoke at the same occasion on "Blood in Stools". He enunciated that this is a common problem, especially in the elderly: and bleeding may occur anywhere along the intestinal tract, from mouth to anus.
Clarifying that whereas usually bleeding is caused by benign conditions such as haemorrhoids or fissure in anus, rectal cancer could also be a cause. Dr Hameed urged that in case blood in stool is seen, a doctor should be consulted at the earliest for initial evaluation, and who may then recommend subsequent diagnosis and treatment by a specialist, should it be necessary.
As part of its outreach programme and societal commitment to creating awareness of early diagnosis and timely treatment, AKUH has organised over 200 'Signs, Symptoms and Care' programmes in Karachi, Hyderabad and the UAE, benefiting more than 40,000 people. Similarly, Aga Khan University Hospital's Patient Welfare Programme offers financial assistance to those patients who are unable to afford the medical cost of treatment. In 2005, 78 per cent of all patients treated at AKUH were from low- to middle-income groups. Since the inception of this welfare programme in 1986, over Rs. 1.4 billion has been disbursed to more than 250,000 needy patients.
