A cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi was organised to promote early detection and preventive healthcare, with doctors urging residents to undergo regular medical check-ups and adopt healthier lifestyles. The programme aimed to educate people about common cancers, risk factors, and the importance of timely diagnosis, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.
The initiative took place in Digboi, a historic town known for Asia’s first oil refinery. Health professionals, community members, and local organisations participated actively, reflecting growing public concern about rising cancer cases and the need for awareness at the grassroots level. Through screenings, consultations, and interactive sessions, the programme sought to bridge gaps in access to cancer-related information and services.
Doctors said the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi highlighted the fact that many cancers remain curable if detected early. Therefore, community-level outreach remains essential, especially in semi-urban and rural areas.
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Cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi focuses on early detection
The cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi placed strong emphasis on early detection. Medical experts explained that delayed diagnosis often leads to complicated treatment and lower survival rates. Consequently, they encouraged people not to ignore early symptoms and to seek medical advice promptly.
Screening services during the programme covered common cancers such as oral, breast, cervical, and lung cancer. Doctors conducted preliminary examinations and guided participants on further diagnostic steps if required. As a result, several individuals received referrals for detailed tests and follow-up consultations.
Health officials said early detection remains the most effective weapon against cancer. Therefore, awareness programmes must reach communities before symptoms become severe.
Doctors highlight prevention through lifestyle changes
During the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi, doctors stressed that many cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes. They explained that tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of physical activity significantly increase cancer risk.
Medical professionals advised people to quit tobacco, reduce alcohol intake, and adopt balanced diets rich in fruits and vegetables. In addition, they encouraged regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes, they said, not only reduce cancer risk but also improve overall health.
Vaccination also featured prominently in discussions. Doctors highlighted the importance of vaccines in preventing certain cancers, particularly cervical cancer. Therefore, they urged parents to ensure timely vaccination for eligible children.
Community participation strengthens outreach
Community participation played a key role in the success of the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi. Local residents, volunteers, and social organisations helped mobilise people and spread information about the camp.
Health workers interacted directly with participants, explaining screening procedures and addressing fears associated with cancer testing. As a result, many people who had never undergone screening felt encouraged to participate.
Organisers said such programmes work best when communities take ownership. Therefore, involving local groups ensures trust, better turnout, and sustained impact beyond a single event.
Addressing myths and stigma around cancer
Another major focus of the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi involved addressing myths and stigma associated with cancer. Doctors explained that fear and misinformation often prevent people from seeking timely medical help.
Medical experts clarified that cancer is not contagious and that early treatment can lead to recovery in many cases. They also stressed the importance of emotional and social support for patients and their families.
Interactive question-and-answer sessions allowed participants to express concerns openly. Consequently, these discussions helped break social barriers and promote informed attitudes toward cancer care.
Role of healthcare institutions and frontline workers
Healthcare institutions and frontline workers played a central role in organising the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi. Doctors, nurses, and health educators worked together to provide accurate information and basic screening services.
Frontline health workers explained referral pathways and available treatment facilities. As a result, participants gained clarity on where to seek help if screenings indicated potential risks.
Officials said strengthening primary healthcare systems remains crucial for early cancer detection. Therefore, regular camps and outreach programmes complement hospital-based services effectively.
Importance of regular screening
Doctors repeatedly emphasised that cancer screening should not be a one-time activity. Instead, regular check-ups help detect abnormalities early, even before symptoms appear. Therefore, they encouraged people above certain age groups to undergo periodic screening.
Medical professionals explained warning signs such as unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, unusual lumps, or changes in bodily functions. They urged individuals not to delay medical consultation if such symptoms persist.
The cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi reinforced the message that awareness and vigilance save lives.
Health education for youth and families
The programme also focused on educating young people and families. Doctors believe that awareness among youth creates long-term impact, as they influence family health decisions and future generations.
Educational sessions explained how healthy habits formed early reduce long-term cancer risk. Therefore, organisers encouraged parents to involve children and adolescents in health discussions.
Schools and local institutions supported the initiative by spreading awareness messages, helping the programme reach a wider audience.
Strengthening cancer care awareness in Assam
The cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi forms part of broader efforts to strengthen cancer care awareness in Assam. Health officials acknowledged that access to specialised treatment remains uneven, particularly in remote areas.
Therefore, awareness and early detection play a critical role in reducing the cancer burden. Officials said outreach programmes help connect people to existing healthcare services and encourage timely intervention.
They added that continued collaboration between government agencies, medical institutions, and civil society remains essential for sustained progress.
Message moving forward
As the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi concluded, doctors urged residents to remain proactive about their health. They stressed that awareness must continue throughout the year, not only during special programmes.
Medical professionals encouraged individuals to adopt preventive lifestyles, undergo regular screenings, and support those affected by cancer with empathy. They also called on communities to spread accurate information and reduce stigma.
Overall, the programme succeeded in reinforcing a crucial message: early detection and prevention save lives. By bringing healthcare closer to the community, the cancer awareness and screening programme in Digboi contributed meaningfully to building a healthier and more informed society in Assam.
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