3 Prof. Mukhi stresses on awareness to create a deterrent against cancer
Guwahati,Rongili Barta- Assam Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi inaugurated 22nd National Conference of Foundation for Head and Neck Oncology, India at a city hotel. Speaking on the occasion, Governor Prof. Mukhi said that head and neck cancers are very common in India. As per reports, one third of cancer of oral cavity are from India. According to the latest GLOBOCAN 2020 report of WHO, cancer of lip and oral cavity among the male stands at number one and 4th most among the female. Most of these cancers are tobacco related. The Governor also said, “Even though Oral cancer is preventable as per the National Cancer Controlled Programme of Govt of India; still, we are not seeing any decline of the incidences of this disease. Although we have a tobacco control Act COTPA in India, it is mostly applicable for smoking tobacco. So we need some stricter measures to control smokeless tobacco. Therefore, we need strong awareness program and campaign.” The Governor also highlighted that one can prevent cancer through self oral examination, lifestyle habits, eating healthy food and by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “Though our country has launched National Cancer Control program in 1975, we need more aggressive cancer awareness program. In any major cancer center in India, 70 to 80 per cent patients come in advance stage. Therefore, there is a need for a strong awareness activity,” the Governor added. Prof. Mukhi however, expressed happiness that the Government has been working exceedingly hard to provide delivery of holistic healthcare to everybody. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, a series of initiatives have been taken by the government to address the health-care issues in the state. The State government in partnership with Tata Trusts has formed Cancer Care Foundation and implemented State-wide Cancer Care programme with the establishment of high end multi level cancer care network across the state. Also, the government with an aim to provide a comprehensive coverage against catastrophic health care expenditure, started innovative cashless health schemes. Prof.Mukhi also urged upon the youngsters to take up a healthy life style and abstain themselves from any form of tobacco. Co-CEO of Rakuten Medical, Japan Mickey Mikatini, Chairman, Governing Council, FHNO Dr Anil D’cruz, President FHNO Dr. Prathmesh Pai, Chairman Organizing Committee Dr. M N Baruah, Secretary, FHNO Dr.P Arun, Secretary Organizing Committee Dr Ashok Kumar Das along with a host of other dignitaries were present at the inaugural function.