Awareness key to cancer prevention, say experts
The Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology at PGIMER, Chandigarh, today hosted a public forum on ‘A Holistic Indian Perspective on Diet, Yoga, Exercise, and Spirituality for Preventing Gastrointestinal Cancers’.
The event, part of the first Annual Conference of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Society (GIOS 2024), brought together health professionals, researchers and community members to discuss integrative approaches to cancer prevention.
It attracted over 200 participants, including students, doctors and cancer survivors, highlighting the community’s commitment to health and prevention.
The panel included experts such as Prof GK Rath, Prof Rakesh Kapoor, Dr Swami Dayadhipananda, Dr Harbans Lal Kapoor, Prof JS Thakur, Prof Vipin Koushal and Dr MK Mahajan. The discussion was moderated by Dr Divya Khosla, organising secretary of the conference.
Highlighting the importance of prevention, Prof GK Rath, former Head, Department of Radiotherapy, AIIMS, New Delhi, stated, “Cancer prevention is not just about early detection; it’s about building a foundation of healthy choices, raising awareness and empowering individuals to take charge of their health. Together, we can reduce the burden of cancer and create a healthier future for all.”
He explained how there were available vaccinations to prevent few cancers such as cervical, others can also be prevented by healthier lifestyle choices.
According to him even before healthy diet, exercise and pollution-free environment, it’s important to spread awareness on ill-effects of tobacco and alcohol. “Rather than youngsters catching up with fancy names of social-smoking or drinking, should be educated to abstain from it always. The first yes to smoking or drinking leads to addiction and chances of cancer,” he added.
Dr Rakesh Kapoor, organising chairman, GIOS 2024, said, “The enthusiastic feedback from attendees reflects a growing awareness and willingness to incorporate yoga and meditation into daily life, signalling a transformative leap towards a health-conscious society. We have sparked a crucial dialogue that merges ancient wisdom with contemporary medical science. Awareness and education are vital first steps in our battle against cancer.”
Many attendees hailed Public Forum session as the best one, which actually created a dialogue on the need of more budget allocation by the government on preventive measures for Indian citizens. Prof Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Head, Department of Hospital Administration, PGIMER, said, “Today’s forum showcased the strength of collaborative wisdom. Integrating diet, exercise, yoga and spirituality forms the cornerstone of public health enhancement and gastrointestinal cancer prevention.”
Cancer survivors, too, shared their inspiring success stories, instilling hope and confidence in attendees.
