Did you recognize November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month among medical professionals worldwide? Find out how you can participate in the global fight against cancer and help spread awareness of the dangerous condition.
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network was established in 1999 with the goal of uniting Americans with pancreatic cancer in a national network. The Global Pancreatic Cancer Coalition was founded in 2016 by a number of its member countries. It was done to raise awareness of the deadly condition and to assist those who had survived pancreatic cancer.
November is recognized as “Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month” by medical experts, cancer research groups, and healthcare facilities worldwide. On November 18, the medical community comes together to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer, its signs and risks.
Why is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month Needed in India?
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth most prevalent cancer in India and the 12th most common cancer overall, according to the ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). In India, pancreatic cancer affects 0.5–2.4 per 100,000 men and 0.2–1.8 per 100,000 women. India has a modest frequency of the disease, but the survival rates are appallingly low.
The fact that pancreatic cancer is a silent killer is one factor contributing to the low survival rates. Even when pancreatic cancer does exhibit early symptoms, patients often mistake them for routine digestive problems. And by the time patients notice a problem, the cancer has spread. Hence, raising awareness of the condition and assisting those who have pancreatic cancer are of utmost importance.
What Can You Do to Help Prevent Pancreatic Cancer?
If you are not a medical expert, that is acceptable. You can help spread knowledge about pancreatic cancer as an accountable Indian citizen who has a responsibility to your fellow citizens. It is a kind act to assist others in avoiding a fatal illness. Here’s how you can change things:
1. Being aware begins with you
Patients with pancreatic cancer can be saved by early detection and prompt medical attention. Therefore, it is imperative to arrange for a regular evaluation with a gastroenterologist. The surgical gastroenterologist will perform a physical examination to check for any Gastrointestinal conditions and pancreatic cancer warning symptoms. To confirm the presence of a pancreatic tumor, they could suggest a few tests like a CT scan, endoscopic ultrasonography, and a biopsy.
2. You Should Get a Second Opinion
Have you received a pancreatic cancer diagnosis? Or perhaps you know someone who has been told they have a tumor. Get a second opinion at all costs. Contact a pancreatic cancer expert who has successfully treated a number of individuals with pancreatic cancer. It is vital to seek professional advice and make decisions that are well-informed when it comes to cancer treatment.
See a Gastrointestinal surgeon for a second view, and also bring up clinical trials and studies with the doctor. Only because of earlier clinical trials is today’s medical care possible. Participating in clinical studies will benefit you and other people with pancreatic cancer.
3. Initiate a Discussion Online
On November 18, 2021, wear purple and post a picture of yourself with the hashtags #PancreaticCancerWarenessMonth, #pancreaticcancer, #fightpancreaticcancer, etc. You may encourage others and offer hope by sharing patient success stories.
Engage in dialogue with your online community and provide accurate information about the illness. You can discuss the potential signs of the condition and upload articles about the risk factors for pancreatic cancer.
4. Take on a Caregiving Volunteer Role
As a certified volunteer caregiver, you can assist the patient in meeting their requirements. You’ll be able to give the patient the essential care and the patient’s family the essential direction they need. Also, you can educate the family about pancreatic cancer risks and spread awareness. In order to prevent the condition, encourage the patient’s family and those in your network to undergo regular medical exams and tests.
In your spare time, you can create an online or offline support group and hold regular meetings to assist those affected by pancreatic cancer and their family. The quality of life for patients and their loved ones must be improved.
5. Provide a Gift
Giving money is a fantastic alternative whether you prefer to assist a friend or acquaintance, launch a pancreatic cancer fundraising initiative, or make a donation to a charitable fund. It will be beneficial to carry out ground-breaking research, develop medical facilities, and even offer patient support in India.
Make sure you choose a legitimate fund when giving money so that the aid reaches those who really need it.
Participate now!
We can defeat the dreadful disease by banding together to spread awareness about pancreatic cancer and provide support for cancer patients. Participate in Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and take responsibility for making India cancer-free.
Leave a Reply