Srinagar, Jun 19 (KNO): Amid a growing burden of cancer cases in Jammu and Kashmir, public health experts have called for greater awareness, early screening, and timely medical intervention to reduce mortality and improve patient outcomes. A public awareness initiative by Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar highlights that early detection remains one of the most effective tools in the fight against the disease.
According to data accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) and presented as part of the awareness campaign, cancer incidence in J&K has shown a rising trend over the past decade, mirroring national and global patterns. Health experts warn that changing lifestyles, tobacco use, dietary habits, environmental factors, and delayed diagnosis are contributing to the growing cancer burden.
The campaign identifies several cancers as particularly prevalent in the region. Among men, lung cancer, oesophageal cancer, stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and oral cancer are among the most commonly diagnosed malignancies. Among women, breast cancer remains the leading cancer, followed by cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, thyroid cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, and endometrial cancer. Breast cancer accounts for the highest relative burden among major cancers, followed by lung, oesophageal, and stomach cancers.
Medical experts urge people to remain vigilant about common warning signs, including persistent changes in bowel or bladder habits, non-healing sores, unusual bleeding or discharge, unexplained lumps, difficulty swallowing, chronic indigestion, noticeable changes in moles or warts, and persistent cough or hoarseness. "Any symptom that persists for several weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early consultation can make a critical difference in treatment outcomes," the campaign notes.
The campaign highlights that approximately one in nine men and one in twelve women in India are likely to develop cancer during their lifetime, but nearly 30 to 50 per cent of cancers can be prevented through lifestyle modifications, including avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and receiving recommended vaccinations.
Women are encouraged to perform regular breast self-examinations and follow mammography recommendations based on age and risk factors. HPV vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 is strongly recommended for cervical cancer prevention, with women aged 30 to 65 urged to undergo periodic screening through Pap smear, VIA, or HPV DNA testing. Annual oral examinations are advised for early detection of oral cancer, particularly among tobacco users.
The campaign points out that a large number of cancer patients in J&K continue to seek medical attention only after the disease has advanced due to lack of awareness, fear and social stigma, reliance on self-medication and home remedies, financial constraints, transportation difficulties in remote areas, inadequate screening facilities, and shortages of specialists. Public health experts advocate a streamlined referral pathway from Health and Wellness Centres to Regional Cancer Centres.
The campaign calls for a three-pronged approach to cancer control: prevention, early detection, and quality treatment. Experts estimate nearly one-third of cancers can be prevented and another one-third successfully treated if diagnosed early. For patients with advanced disease, palliative care remains critical for pain relief, symptom management, and psychological support.
"Every cancer patient deserves dignity, comfort and compassion, regardless of the stage of illness," the awareness message states. The campaign concludes with: "Be aware, get screened, live healthy, support patients and spread hope. Early detection saves lives." People seeking information and support can contact the National Cancer Helpline at 1800-11-2299—(KNO)