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World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4, serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against cancer extends far beyond operation theatres, hospitals, or laboratories. It is a shared responsibility, one that brings together healthcare professionals, patients, families, caregivers, and communities.
As a surgical oncologist in Varthur Road, Bangalore, Dr. Nataraj Naidu R—Consultant Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgeon at Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road—talks about witnessing how early detection, timely intervention, and compassionate care can dramatically transform outcomes in his daily life.
He says, “I also see the challenges that persist across India and Karnataka, particularly when cancer is diagnosed at an advanced stage.”
Synopsis
The Reality of Cancer Care in India and Bengaluru Urban
India is facing a steadily growing cancer burden, driven by lifestyle changes, environmental factors, increased life expectancy, and limited awareness. In urban centres such as Bengaluru Urban, we are seeing a noticeable rise in breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers, alongside the continued prevalence of oral, cervical, and head-and-neck cancers.
Despite access to advanced cancer care in Varthur Road, Bangalore, a significant number of patients still present late, often when curative treatment becomes more complex. This highlights a crucial gap in awareness and access, reinforcing the importance of cancer screening and timely referral to specialist care.
Role of Surgery in Cancer Treatment
The role of surgery in cancer treatment remains central, particularly for many solid tumors detected at an early stage. Surgical intervention continues to be one of the most effective and potentially curative treatment options.
Advances in minimally invasive techniques, organ-preserving surgeries, and multidisciplinary treatment planning have significantly improved outcomes and recovery times. As a surgical oncologist, my approach focuses on:
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Evidence-based, patient-specific treatment planning
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Multidisciplinary collaboration with medical and radiation oncologists
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Balancing oncological safety with quality of life
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Clear and compassionate communication with patients and families
Cancer care is not only about removing disease; it is about restoring confidence, dignity, and hope.
Early Detection Saves Lives
On this World Cancer Day, Dr. Nataraj Naidu strongly encourages individuals and families across Bengaluru and Karnataka to prioritise preventive health and regular screenings. Cancer screening in Varthur Road is widely available, yet often underutilised.
Routine screening and awareness of cancer warning signs frequently lead to early detection of cancers of the breast, cervix, oral cavity, colon, and prostate. Early detection allows for simpler treatment, better outcomes, and improved quality of life.
Simple lifestyle choices, like avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy routine, and seeking timely medical advice, can significantly reduce the risk factor of getting cancer.
Equity in Cancer Care: A Shared Responsibility
While cancer care in Varthur Road, Bangalore, India, benefits from advanced infrastructure and expertise, many patients from surrounding districts and rural Karnataka still face some gaps when it comes to timely diagnosis and treatment.
True equity in cancer care means ensuring that quality treatment is accessible, affordable, and patient-centric, regardless of geography or background. Strengthening referral systems, outreach programs, telemedicine, and patient education is essential to bridging this gap.
Standing with Patients, Survivors, and Caregivers
Cancer affects not only the individual diagnosed but also their family and caregivers. On this World Cancer Day, we acknowledge the resilience of patients undergoing treatment, the strength of survivors, and the unwavering support of caregivers.
A Message on World Cancer Day 2026 from Dr. Nataraj Naidu
On World Cancer Day 2026, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to:
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Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention
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Ethical, evidence-based cancer care
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Patient education and community awareness
Compassion, dignity, and hope throughout every cancer journey
Cancer is a formidable challenge, but with the proper information, early action, and compassionate care, it is a challenge we can face together.
At Manipal Hospitals Varthur Road Bangalore our surgical oncology team provides advanced cancer diagnosis treatment and compassionate care using modern surgical techniques and multidisciplinary expertise. Early screening and timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
This article is authored by Dr. Nataraj Naidu R - Consultant Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgeon at Manipal Hospital, Varthur Road.
FAQ's
Early detection helps identify cancer at an initial stage when treatment is more effective and less complex. It improves survival rates, allows less invasive treatments, and enhances overall quality of life.
Warning signs may include unexplained weight loss, persistent lumps or swelling, unusual bleeding, difficulty swallowing, long-lasting cough, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and non-healing sores. Early medical consultation is important if any of these symptoms persist.
Surgery is often recommended when cancer is localized and can be removed completely. It is one of the most effective treatments for many solid tumors and may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation for better outcomes.
Advanced techniques such as minimally invasive surgery and robotic surgery offer smaller incisions, faster recovery, reduced complications, shorter hospital stays, and improved precision during tumor removal.
Risk can be reduced by avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, attending routine screenings, and consulting a doctor promptly if symptoms appear.
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