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Gujarat's Cancer Battle: How 50,000 Screenings Are Saving Lives

Gujarat marked National Cancer Awareness Day with extensive screening programs across the state. The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute has screened over 50,000 people through rural camps and free walk-in OPDs. Health officials emphasized the rising cancer cases linked to tobacco use and poor eating habits. The state government's initiatives have positioned GCRI as a leading cancer treatment center nationwide.

Key Points: GCRI Screens 50,000 People in Gujarat Cancer Awareness Drive

  • GCRI organized thousands of rural cancer screening camps across Gujarat state
  • Over 50,000 people screened through free walk-in OPD and rural initiatives
  • Health Minister warns tobacco and smoking rapidly increasing throat cancer cases
  • Institute Director emphasizes daily exercise and fresh food for cancer prevention
2 min read

Gujarat: Over 50,000 people screened at GCRI, cancer awareness programs held

Gujarat Cancer Institute screens over 50,000 people through rural camps and free OPDs as state marks National Cancer Awareness Day with prevention programs.

"Cancer prevention is completely possible if we make some changes in our lives - Dr. Shashank Pandya, GCRI Director"

Ahmedabad, Nov 12

On the occasion of National Cancer Awareness Day, several programs were organised across Gujarat to educate people about the life-threatening ailment, while campaigns were organised to screen people for the fatal disease.

The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute (GCRI), Ahmedabad, commemorated World Cancer Day by organising a special program underscoring the importance of 'celebrating cancer heroes in society'.

The institute also organised thousands of cancer screening camps in rural areas of the state. A free walk-in cancer screening OPD was also being run, where the public can easily get tested.

Notably, the reputed medical institute has screened over 50,000 people in the past three years and organised a raft of rural camps and free walk-in OPDs.

The National Cancer Awareness Day is celebrated in the state every year. This started in 2014, and since then, programs have been organised every year to raise awareness about cancer. This year too, many events were organised to enlighten people about cancer and preventive measures.

Through health camps, seminars, and awareness rallies, people were informed about how to avoid this disease by adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansaria said, "We have tampered with nature a lot. Excessive use of chemical medicines and artificial foods has increased. Eating habits have deteriorated. Tobacco and smoking are rapidly increasing cases of mouth and throat cancer. Now is the time to improve our lifestyle."

Under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the Gujarat government has taken significant strides in cancer awareness and treatment. The GCRI Ahmedabad stands as a fitting example of this achievement as it has emerged as a leading cancer treatment centre not only in the state but across the country.

Institute Director Shashank Pandya said, "Cancer prevention is completely possible if we make some changes in our lives. Quit tobacco and smoking immediately, exercise daily, and eat fresh fruits and vegetables. By improving small habits, we can stay away from diseases like cancer."

Pandya explained that breast and cervical cancer are most common in women, while lung, oral, and prostate cancers are more common in men.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Screening 50,000 people is impressive, but I hope they're reaching the most vulnerable rural populations. Often these programs remain urban-focused. Still, good work by GCRI!
M
Michael C
As someone working in public health, I appreciate Gujarat's systematic approach. The combination of screening camps, awareness programs, and free OPDs creates a comprehensive model other states should follow.
A
Ananya R
The Health Minister is absolutely right about lifestyle changes. In our cities, junk food and stress have become normal. Time to go back to our traditional healthy diets and habits. 🥗
S
Sarah B
Wonderful to see such progress! I hope they continue expanding these services. Cancer doesn't discriminate, and neither should healthcare access.
V
Vikram M
GCRI has been doing amazing work for years. My neighbor received excellent treatment there. Proud that Gujarat is leading in cancer care. More power to the doctors and staff! 💪

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