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Kibangkumba delivering a keynote address during the advocacy programme commemorating the world cancer day in Mokokchung on February 3. (EM Images)[/caption]
Mokokchung, Feb. 3 (EMN): Deputy chief medical officer and nodal official, Mokokchung, Dr. Kibangkumba, has attributed human laziness and uncontrolled food habits as the greatest problems responsible for both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Kibangkumba stated this while delivering his keynote address on ‘Advocacy on cancer awareness in observance of World Cancer Day 2018’ organised by the department of health and family welfare in collaboration with Watsu Mungdang at Ongpangkong Salang, Mokokchung.
The medical officer explained that most common non-communicable diseases were cancer, hypertension and diabetes in India and also in the state of Nagaland. Citing the worldwide survey 2012, he stated that more than 14 million cancer cases were detected every year adding that by 2032 cancer cases would increase to million 8.4.
Besides, he also informed that Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) research had shown more than 600 new cancer cases in Nagaland every year. According to the research, the four leading causes of cancer in males are nasopharynx, stomach, oesophagus and hypopharynx, while in females are cervix, stomach, breast and nasopharynx.
The research further claimed that more than 700 cancer patients were referred for treatment outside the state during the year 2013-15 due to lack of cancer care services in the state.
With northeast India having the highest prevalence cancer cases in both male and female, Nagaland figures among the top of the list.
In this connection, the deputy chief medical officer called upon the Watsu Mungdang to pursue its long cherished dream to materials the radiotherapy unit under Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital which is still on paper.
“If established, it will be the biggest achievement in the fight against cancer,” he said.
Dr. Chubala, senior pathologist of IMDH, Mokokchung, and Dr. Kilangwabang Pongener, medicine specialist of IMDH, Mokokchung, also spoke on the topic “Cancer in women: An overview” and “Awareness on cancer,” respectively.
The programme was attended by more than 200 women from various units of Watsu Mungdang.
Dr. Kika, deputy director of health and family welfare, was the moderator during the interactive session. Temsusola, the first Watsu Mungdang president and a cancer survivor also spoke at the programme.