National Cancer Awareness Day: Join Us in the Fight Against Cancer

November 7 is recognized across India as National Cancer Awareness Day, a day dedicated to increasing awareness about cancer, its prevention, early detection, and treatment options. Introduced by the Indian Union Health Ministry in 2014, the significance of this date is rooted in the legacy of Nobel Prize-winning scientist Marie Curie, whose groundbreaking work in discovering radium and polonium laid the foundation for nuclear energy and modern radiotherapy used in cancer treatment.

In recent years, cancer has emerged as a growing concern in India. By 2022, the country recorded 14,61,427 cancer cases, with an alarming statistic that one in nine individuals could potentially face a cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. This number is projected to increase by 12.8% by 2025. While men are predominantly affected by lung cancer, breast cancer remains the most common type among women.

The Cancer Belt of India: Malwa, Punjab

The Malwa region of Punjab is infamously known as India’s “cancer belt,” with a cancer incidence rate of 107 per 100,000 —significantly higher than the national average of 80 per 100,000. This high rate has been linked to the extensive use of agricultural chemicals and pesticides in the area. Moreover, increasing pollution levels are contributing to a higher risk of lung cancer across the country, with harmful air pollutants impacting individuals regardless of smoking habits.

Steps to Reduce Cancer Risk

While no preventive measure guarantees complete immunity from cancer, adopting certain lifestyle habits can reduce the risk:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keep your body weight within a healthy range.
• Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activity to keep your body fit.
• Avoid Smoking: Say no to tobacco in any form.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Keep alcohol intake to a minimum.
• Protect Against UV Rays: Use sunscreen and limit sun exposure.
• Prevent STDs: Take precautions to avoid sexually transmitted diseases.

Despite these measures, it’s important to understand that cancer can affect anyone, even those who take preventative steps. This is why early detection is key to effective and cost-efficient treatment.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly:

1. Persistent or irregular periods, pelvic pain
2. Changes in bathroom habits (frequent or infrequent urination)
3. Bloating or abdominal discomfort
4. Unexplained breast changes
5. Chronic cough or persistent headaches
6. Difficulty swallowing
7. Excessive bruising or frequent fevers/infections
8. Changes in oral health (e.g., sores or patches)
9. Changes in skin appearance
10. Ongoing pain or fatigue
11. Postmenopausal bleeding
12. Stomach pain, nausea, or unexplained weight loss

How Spreading Bliss Foundation Can Help

At Spreading Bliss Foundation, we believe in empowering individuals in their fight against cancer. Our platform hosts fundraising initiatives for those needing financial assistance for treatment. If you or someone you know is seeking support for cancer care, please reach out through our website, email, or social media channels. Your health and well-being are our priority.

Thank you for taking the time to read this important message. Please share it with your friends and family to spread awareness, encourage early detection, and join the collective effort to combat cancer. Together, we can fight this battle and bring hope to those affected.