Chandigarh, February 3 , 2025 : ( AVAJ APKI NEWS )
More than 700 people came together at Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh, to participate in the ‘Umeed Ke Sitare Walkathon,’ organized by Paras Cancer Centre and Paras Health on the occasion of World Cancer Day – United by Unique. The event aimed to spread awareness about cancer, encourage early detection, and show solidarity with those battling the disease.
The walkathon was flagged off by Chief Guest Dr. Manish Bansal, Director General Health Services, Haryana. The event saw the participation of cancer warriors, medical professionals, and members of the community, with several cancer survivors being honored on stage for their resilience and inspiring fight.
Cancer survivor patients also shared their emotional and inspiring stories, highlighting the importance of early detection and timely treatment. They emphasized that raising awareness and regular screenings can save lives and improve survival rates.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Manish Bansal said, “Raising awareness and ensuring access to early detection and quality treatment is the key to reducing the burden of cancer in India.”
Dr. Brig Rajeshwar Singh, Director of Medical Oncology, highlighted that over 30 lakh people in India suffer from cancer, with five lakh lives lost annually. He pointed out that Breast and Cervical Cancer are the most common among women, while Oral, Lung, and Liver Cancer are prevalent in men. He also raised concerns over the rising number of Breast Cancer cases among younger women, stating that 50% of cases now occur between the ages of 25-50, with over 70% diagnosed at an advanced stage, leading to poor survival rates.
Dr. Jagandeep Singh, senior Consultant, Ortho Oncology, spoke about the new Ortho Onco Surgery unit at Paras Hospitals, Panchkula, which specializes in Bone Tumors, Sarcomas, and Limb Preservation Surgeries, improving treatment outcomes for bone cancer patients.
Dr. Chitresh Aggarwal, Senior consultant Oncologist, stressed the importance of early diagnosis and prevention, stating, “Cancer is not just a disease but a challenge that requires awareness, early screening, and timely intervention. With advancements in treatment, we can give patients a better quality of life and higher survival rates.”
Dr. Parneet Singh, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, emphasized that cancer cases are projected to increase by 70% over the next two decades. He explained the role of Radiation Therapy in effectively targeting cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
The event successfully reinforced the importance of early detection, advanced treatment options, and community support in the fight against cancer, spreading hope and awareness among the public.
