Concern over rising number of cancer cases in Dibrugarh district

From a Correspondent

mrup, Feb 18: The Population Based Cancer Research (PBCR), Dibrugarh, a wing of Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), working to generate authentic and quality data on cancer incidence, organized a cancer awareness programme on Friday at mrup Mini PHC with the active participation of 50 Asha workers and a large number of people.

Dr Projn Saikia, Prof and Head, Pathology and Principal Investigator, PBCR, AMCH, Dibrugarh, conducted the programme as the chief resource person who lucidly explained the assembled people about the various cancer-related factors, including its early signs and symptoms, risk factors, cancer types in men and women, cancer screening, accurate registration of cancer patients and government schemes for cancer patients as well.

 Dr Biswajit Baruah, Sub-divisiol Medical and Health officer, harani, BPHC and Dr. Vinod Singh of mrup PHC shared their views on various cancer-related issues. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Projn Saikia expressed his deep concern over the mushrooming growth of cancer cases in Dibrugarh district. He too stated that gallbladder cancer in women and colorectal carcinoma in men are highest in rate. Thus to know the actual reasons behind such incidence, PBCR has actively engaged Asha workers to collect accurate statistical data on various cancer-related factors like cancer incidence in both men women, cancer incidence by age, types of cancers affecting people, cancer survival and mortality rate.

 “Accurate registration of cancer incidence in turn helps the government to implement plans and policies for the cancer patients,” he said.  Besides, Dr. Biswajit Baruah stated the importance of Asha workers to collect data on cancer-related incidence. By arranging such awareness camp, PBCR, Dibrugarh wants to spread awareness among people through the Asha workers. PBCR in Dibrugarh, launched in 2003, is one among the 27 PBCR networks operating in the country.