Oncology and Radiology

Cancer Awareness

Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It represents 8.5 million deaths (around 15% of all deaths) in 2017. The majority of cancers, around 80-85% of cases, are due to genetic mutations caused by environmental factors. The remaining 10-15% is due to inherited genetics.

Environmental, as practiced by tumor researchers, determines some reason that is not genetically inherited, such as lifestyle, commercial and behavioral circumstances and factors, and not only pollution.

Common environmental factors that contribute to death from cancer include tobacco (30-40%), diet and obesity (20-30%), infections (10-20%), radiation (both ionizing and non-ionizing, up to 15%), stress, lack of physical activity and pollution.

Cancer usually generates fear that originates from ignorance and error. More than 40% of cancer patients could be prevented by changing lifestyle or by avoiding key risk agents. Approximately 1/4 of cancer cases could be reduced if cases are treated and detected at an early stage.

Objectives of cancer awareness

To create awareness of the disease.

Help people recognize the early signs and symptoms of cancer, allowing them to seek treatment at an early stage. The presentation support and encourages participants to explore prompt medical care for signs that may involve lumps, wounds, bleeding, hoarseness, weight loss and persistent indigestion/ cough/pain, etc.

Educate people about the main risk factors for cancer, since more than 40% of cancer cases could be prevented by modifying lifestyle or avoiding key risk factors.

Inform people about the importance of cancer screening at an early stage and motivate them to take over cancer control services at a very nominal cost through the Cancer Detection Center.

Achievements of cancer awareness

During 2010-2017, 190 educational and awareness-raising programs on cancer were carried out in various places, such as schools, institutes, private companies, NGOs and government organizations. A total of 30,315 participants benefited from these programs. During the programs, information was provided on cancer, the causes and symptoms of cancer, types of cancer, cancer control and its importance, treatment, and prevention of cancer. During the program, pamphlets related to cancer were distributed among the participants to educate them about cancer.