Stresses modern healthcare facilities, grassroots screening and special focus on people in remote and rural areas
Adv Devraj Sharma calls for stronger cancer awareness, early detection and affordable treatment in J&K
Stresses modern healthcare facilities, grassroots screening and special focus on people in remote and rural areas
Jammu: On the occasion of National Cancer Awareness Day, senior BJP leader and former Sarpanch Adv Devraj Sharma has called for a comprehensive and sustained campaign against cancer, emphasising early detection, preventive healthcare, public awareness and affordable treatment for all sections of society.
In his message, Sharma said that National Cancer Awareness Day, observed every year on November 7, is an important occasion to remind society that cancer is not merely a medical challenge but also a serious social and economic concern affecting thousands of families. He observed that awareness, timely medical consultation and access to quality healthcare can make a significant difference in addressing the growing burden of the disease.
Highlighting the importance of the occasion from the perspective of Jammu and Kashmir, Sharma said that the Union Territory requires a stronger and more accessible cancer-care network, particularly for people living in rural, border, hilly and far-flung areas. He pointed out that geographical challenges and limited access to specialised medical facilities often create difficulties for patients who have to travel considerable distances for diagnosis, treatment and regular consultations.
He stressed that cancer awareness should not remain confined to hospitals and medical institutions but must reach every village, Panchayat, educational institution and urban locality. Panchayati Raj Institutions, social organisations, youth groups, women’s organisations and community representatives should actively participate in spreading awareness about cancer prevention, early warning signs and the importance of timely medical examinations.
Sharma particularly emphasised the need to educate people about breast cancer, cervical cancer and oral cancer, while encouraging women to undergo appropriate screening and seek medical advice without hesitation. He also called for greater awareness about HPV vaccination in accordance with national health recommendations.
Expressing concern over tobacco consumption, he said that tobacco remains an important preventable risk factor for several types of cancer. There is an urgent need to intensify awareness campaigns against smoking and other forms of tobacco consumption, particularly among young people. Educational institutions should organise regular awareness programmes to encourage healthy lifestyles and discourage habits that increase cancer risks.
The BJP leader also called upon the Jammu and Kashmir administration to strengthen cancer diagnosis and treatment facilities at Government Medical Colleges, district hospitals and other healthcare institutions. He said that modern diagnostic equipment, specialised doctors, oncology departments, radiation therapy facilities and affordable medicines should be made increasingly accessible across the Union Territory.
Referring to the financial difficulties faced by cancer patients and their families, Sharma urged the government to ensure effective implementation of applicable health insurance schemes and financial assistance programmes so that economically weaker families do not suffer because of the high cost of treatment. He said that no patient should be deprived of medical care due to financial constraints.
He also appreciated the contribution of doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, researchers and healthcare workers who work tirelessly to support cancer patients and their families. Their role in spreading awareness, providing medical guidance and offering compassionate care deserves recognition.
Sharma maintained that cancer prevention and control require coordinated efforts by the government, healthcare institutions, civil society and citizens. He appealed to people not to ignore persistent health problems, avoid misleading information and seek professional medical advice whenever required.
Concluding his message, Adv Devraj Sharma said that National Cancer Awareness Day should serve as a renewed commitment towards building a healthier Jammu and Kashmir where every citizen has access to awareness, early diagnosis, quality treatment and affordable healthcare.”Awareness, prevention and timely treatment are our strongest collective instruments in the fight against cancer. Saving lives must remain our shared priority,” he added.
