How to make a strong Cervical Cancer free society?

I was a part of the session wherein, I was training other volunteers on basic hygiene, pathology and treatment methods for cervical and breast cancer. The session was conducted at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad. It was great to know that these volunteers, in turn, would be creating awareness among people residing in rural areas. Both, cervical as well as breast cancer are taboo topics which most of the people shy away from. Hence, the initial symptoms are ignored which can have dire consequences at later stages. Widespread awareness is one of the important ways to fight such ailments. During the session, we discussed the screening and treatment methods. The volunteers listened with utmost interest and came up with numerous questions which were patiently answered. It was inspiring to experience the zeal and enthusiasm of the volunteers for serving the society.

My name is Gajrabai Devkhule and I live in Gopalpur village in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra. My niece is an ASHA worker and this is how I became aware of the issues regarding cervical cancer. I was suffering from the symptoms since over a year. I tried treatments from a few private health clinics without any luck. My niece then informed me about a health camp being held at a mobile clinic in my village. After a free health checkup at the camp, I was informed that I was suffering from cervical cancer. However, the doctors at the camp assured me that there was no reason to worry. The doctors prescribed a surgery which would also happen free of cost. Later, I was admitted at the MGM Hospital with the assistance of a volunteer from the GeBBS Foundation . I underwent a surgery which was successful and absolutely free of cost. The volunteer provided complete assistance throughout my stay at the hospital. Despite my modest background I could undergo a successful tre...

Patients diagnosed with cervical cancer have a lot to deal with including keeping up with the doctor appointments and medications. While focusing on getting well is the most obvious thing to, it is also important to pay attention to dealing with the side effects from cancer treatments. A major part of the healing process also includes feeling your best. Managing side effects Physical side effects from treatment for cervical cancer include appetite changes, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, mouth dryness or thick saliva, mouth sores or sore throat, nausea, swallowing problems, taste and smell changes and weight changes. It is important for you to talk to your health care team about how you are feeling. Do not forget to bring to light any new side effects or changes in existing side effects.   If you clearly communicate how you are feeling, your doctor will be in a better position to manage your side effects and prevent them from worsening. Coping with emotiona...

The feeling that your loved one is suffering from cancer can be overwhelming. While you care for your loved one, it’s equally important to take care of yourself. Here are a few important tips to follow: ·          Gather Information Make sure you are well aware of all the outcomes of the disease that your loved one is suffering from. This includes the likely symptoms, seeking the right medical help and the after-effects of the treatment. There is truth to the phrase, ‘knowledge is power.’ ·          Maintain hygiene standards It is important to maintain an atmosphere of hygiene. Cancer patients are susceptible to infections. Cleanliness will ensure that the diseases are kept at bay – both for the patients as well as the caregivers. ·          Seek and accept a helping hand It’s true that Cancer patients should seek and accept help. However, this...