National Cancer Awareness Day serves as a reminder that cancer is not only a medical condition but a growing public health challenge. Early detection, preventive awareness, and compassionate multidisciplinary care together form the backbone of better outcomes. To understand the urgency and the path forward, experts shed light on the rising burden of cancer, the consequences of late detection, and the importance of coordinated care.
The Bigger Picture: Growing Burden and Need for Awareness
The rising cancer incidence in India reflects a global pattern that demands continued attention. Dr. Preet Kaur, Vice President, Lab Operations, Engineering & Quality at Thyrocare, highlights the scale of the issue:
“1 in 6 deaths globally is due to cancer… Up to 50% of cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes and early detection. India records about 14–15 lakh new cancer cases every year… Over 70% of cancer cases in India are detected late.”
These figures point to two urgent realities: cancer is increasingly common, and a large proportion of cases reach hospitals only when limited treatment options remain. The late-detection challenge is not confined to any single cancer type—it is a systemic gap in awareness, access, and routine screening. National Cancer Awareness Day therefore becomes a call to action to encourage regular screenings, reduce tobacco and lifestyle-related risks, and normalize conversations around early symptoms.
The Clinical Reality: Why Early Detection Saves Lives
While statistics provide scale, clinicians witness the impact of late diagnosis in real time. Dr. Shailesh Bondarde, Consultant – Medical Oncologist, Apex Wellness Hospital, Nashik, explains how subtle symptoms often lead to delayed detection in cancers like liver cancer:
“Some patients may experience only mild weakness or discomfort… others present at a more advanced stage with jaundice or fluid buildup in the abdomen. That’s why early detection is so important… regular screening can help catch the disease early.”
His observation captures the challenge—many cancers begin silently, with symptoms mistaken for routine discomfort. High-risk groups such as individuals with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis often benefit most from proactive scanning, yet many remain unaware of the need. Detecting cancer before it spreads dramatically increases the chances of curative treatment, including options like surgery or transplantation.
The Way Forward: Compassionate, Team-Based Treatment
Early detection is only the first step. The next is ensuring that patients receive holistic, coordinated care. Dr. Mohammed Zehran S, Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Center, Chennai, emphasizes the value of structured teamwork:
“Cancer treatment is always delivered through a team effort… Their role is not just to manage the physical treatment, but also to address the emotional, mental, and social needs of the patient.”
His insight underscores that cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. Counselors, nurses, psychologists, and family caregivers all play a role in supporting patients through the physical strain and emotional uncertainty of their journey. This multidisciplinary approach shapes recovery and long-term well-being.
Conclusion: Turning Awareness Into Action
National Cancer Awareness Day reminds us that awareness is not a formality—it is a life-saving tool. By fostering early detection, reducing preventable risk factors, promoting routine screening, and ensuring comprehensive care, we can empower more individuals to recognize symptoms early and seek timely support. Awareness, when paired with action, has the power to save countless lives.