Cancer Is Not a Death Sentence; Early Detection Saves Lives: Dr. Chiranjeevi

Hyderabad: Megastar and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. Chiranjeevi on Wednesday said that cancer should not be viewed as a death sentence and emphasised that early detection can help patients overcome the disease and lead normal lives.

Speaking at the International Cancer Day programme organised by KIMS Hospitals in Secunderabad, Dr. Chiranjeevi said cancer is not a curse from God but is largely linked to lifestyle choices. Inaugurating the event as the chief guest, he stressed the need to change the common perception that a cancer diagnosis marks the end of life.

“When we see so many cancer survivors here today, it shows the tireless efforts of doctors. If cancer is detected at an early stage, it can be treated successfully, and patients can return to a normal life,” he said. Expressing concern over the rising number of cancer cases among children, he urged parents to remain vigilant and seek medical advice immediately if symptoms appear.

KIMS Group of Hospitals CMD Dr. B. Bhaskar Rao said fear and stigma associated with cancer must be overcome. He highlighted that advanced medical care, including robotic surgeries, is now widely available in India. “Earlier, patients had to go abroad for treatment. Today, patients from other countries are coming to India for advanced cancer care,” he said, adding that early diagnosis remains the most critical factor in successful treatment.

Senior Consultant Surgical Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon Dr. Madhu Devarasetty said cancer is no longer confined to people above 40 or 50 years of age and is increasingly being diagnosed in children as young as five or 10 years. He attributed the trend to genetic factors, heredity, radiation exposure, chemicals, fertilisers, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress and lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes.

“Due to lack of awareness, many patients reach hospitals at advanced stages. Public awareness is therefore crucial,” he said. He added that KIMS Hospitals has established a Cancer Fight Support Group to guide and support patients and their families. Cancer survivors who have returned to normal life also shared their experiences, spreading awareness that cancer is curable if treated early.

The event was attended by Medical Director Dr. Sambit Sahu, Medical Oncologist Dr. Narender Kumar Thota, cancer survivors, patients undergoing treatment and healthcare professionals.

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