Cancer: Detect Early to Save, Realize Late and Lose

These two words still shatter the dreams of many Nepali families in an instant.
When a mother, father, son, or daughter in the family is diagnosed with cancer, it's not just the name of a disease – it's a storm of emotions. It's uncertainty about the future. Sometimes, just hearing the word makes life lose its color.

But cancer is not synonymous with death.
If detected in time and treated properly – cancer can be defeated.

That’s why we must raise our voices and say loudly:
“The earlier the cancer is detected, the more effective the treatment!”

We are all different, but we share one goal: the fight against cancer.

Every year on February 4th, World Cancer Day is observed. This year's theme is:
"United by Uniqueness" – We are different, but united for one purpose.
We may be a daughter to someone, a father to someone else, a friend to another... but when it comes to the battle against cancer, we are all the same – humans, trying to save lives.

Cancer:

Many consider cancer a mysterious disease, as if from another planet. But it's simply a condition where our own body’s cells forget their boundaries and grow uncontrollably. Our diet, lifestyle, and environment – all play a role in this.

If detected at an early stage, cancer is treatable.
There are many examples of people in Nepal who have been treated in local hospitals and have recovered – today, they are spreading awareness to others.

The biggest mistake: Delaying

The biggest challenge with cancer in Nepal is that 70–80% of patients reach the hospital only in the final stages.
By then, the disease has taken deep root. At that moment, a doctor hides tears in their eyes – because the delay arrived before the disease.

Cervical cancer: Preventable premature death

Even today, three to four Nepali women die daily due to cervical cancer.
If we become aware in time,
If young girls receive the HPV vaccine, we can save the lives of mothers, sisters, and daughters.

So, a humble request:
“Let’s not close our eyes – let’s open them, get vaccinated, and save lives.”

Change your lifestyle – change the direction of your life

80–90% of cancer causes are linked to lifestyle choices.
Smoking, alcohol, obesity, stress, fatigue, and poor diet –
All these slowly deteriorate the body.

But we have a choice. Let’s wake up, change, and become aware – for ourselves and for others.

There is still hope

A cancer diagnosis does not mean waiting for death – it’s the beginning of a battle.
A battle that requires mental strength, timely treatment, medical advice, and family support.
And most importantly – hope.

Hope that this disease can be beaten.
Hope that you will smile again one day.
Hope that your story will inspire others.

In conclusion...

Cancer can happen to any of us.
But all of us have a power – the power of love, support, and awareness.
So starting today, let’s take a moment to observe ourselves and our loved ones –
A tired body, a change in speech, sudden weight loss...
Let’s not ignore these small signs.

If we detect cancer early, we can stop it in time.
And that time – is now.

(Dr. Shahi is an Associate Professor at Patan Academy of Health Sciences.)