Cancer can be completely cured if detected timely: Doc

Lucknow: If you notice blood in your stool, seek medical advice immediately without hesitation.

Ignoring this symptom can be dangerous, as 60-70per cent of people assume it is piles and avoid consulting doctors. However, it can also be a sign of cancer, warned Prof Naseem Akhtar from the department of surgical oncology at King George's Medical University (KGMU).

He was speaking at a colorectal cancer awareness programme held at Shatabdi Bhawan-2 on Saturday. Prof Akhtar highlighted that people often feel embarrassed to discuss such issues, but timely medical advice is crucial. Blood in stool could indicate not only piles but also cancer in the intestines or other abdominal organs.

Prof Akhtar emphasized that cancer can be completely cured if detected and treated on time. Surgery can remove the affected part, while chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be required in some cases. He advised people to eat fibre-rich fruits, green vegetables, avoid fast food, quit smoking and drink plenty of clean water to reduce cancer risks.

After cancer surgeries, patients might need a stool bag temporarily. Prof Akhtar assured that the bag is safe and comfortable. The department's head, Prof Vijay Kumar, explained that the bag is often removed after recovery. Modern techniques like laparoscopic surgery are making colorectal cancer operations more effective.

Prof Sumit Rungta, head of the gastro medicine department, said colonoscopy is a key test to detect intestinal diseases. It is safe, takes less than a minute, and helps diagnose cancer, ulcers and other conditions. Prof Sudhir Singh from the radiotherapy department informed that several govt schemes provide free cancer treatment for poor patients. Cancer survivor Rehana Ali shared that with determination, cancer can be defeated.