Lung Cancer Awareness: United in our Goals- Episode 4

On World Cancer Day, Akanksha Tripathi, a brave young woman living with lung cancer, shared her personal journey and highlighted the importance of timely diagnosis, awareness, and the financial burden that cancer treatment often imposes. The discussion focused on several critical issues related to cancer care, particularly for those living in smaller towns and the need for better awareness about the disease.

Akanksha began by acknowledging that most cancer diagnoses, particularly for lung cancer, occur at an advanced stage. She shared her own experience, where despite having symptoms since November 2021, it wasn’t until April 2022 that she received a proper diagnosis. In the interim, her tests had come back normal, and even tuberculosis treatment was administered before cancer was identified. By the time she was diagnosed, six months had passed. This delay in diagnosis is not uncommon, especially in smaller towns where access to advanced medical care is limited. She urged the government to provide better resources and oncologists in public hospitals, stressing that early diagnosis and treatment could save lives and offer hope to many.

The conversation also touched upon the stigma surrounding cancer. Akanksha shared how people often view cancer patients solely through the lens of the disease, rather than seeing them as individuals. She explained that when she tells people she has lung cancer, they focus more on the word “cancer” than on her as a person. This kind of labeling can be isolating and harmful. Akanksha called for a change in societal attitudes, asking people to see cancer patients as normal individuals, as cancer is simply another illness like diabetes or hypertension. She emphasized that cancer treatment is possible, and with the right support and understanding, people can live fulfilling lives.

One of the major barriers to effective cancer care that Akanksha pointed out was the financial strain it imposes. She shared that the medication for her targeted therapy costs around 800 rupees per month, which was a significant financial burden for her middle-class family. Although she was fortunate to receive help from Tata Hospital, many others who cannot afford the treatment are left without access to necessary medication. She called on the government to include targeted therapies in the Ayushman Bharat Scheme or other state welfare programs, so that more cancer patients can receive the treatment they need without the crippling financial strain.

Akanksha's message was clear: the cost of life-saving treatments should not be determined by financial capacity. Cancer patients, like any other individuals, deserve the right to live without the constant worry of how to afford their treatment. Through awareness programs, both in schools and communities, people can be educated about cancer, its treatment, and the importance of early diagnosis. With increased understanding, the stigma surrounding cancer can be reduced, and more people can seek help without fear or shame.

In conclusion, Akanksha’s insights shed light on the multifaceted challenges faced by cancer patients, including late diagnoses, stigma, and the financial burden of treatment. Her advocacy for increased awareness, timely diagnosis, and accessible treatment serves as an important call for change in society and healthcare systems.

Watch here- https://youtu.be/GtFVkxSeDpE?si=nh_yOlmcJH5RFfNz