Going abroad for cancer treatment not necessary
Empathy for cancer patients and proper treatment, instead of fear or social stigma, can save millions of lives every year, said cancer survivors, caregivers and medical experts.
They said the traditional fear about cancer should in no way dominate the social discourse, as medical scientists have developed high-quality medicines and sophisticated technology, many of which are available at home.
The observations came at a webinar titled "The Stories of Conquering Cancer" jointly organised by Eskayef Oncology and The Daily Star yesterday, on the eve of World Cancer Day today, with theme "#IAmAndIWill".
The campaign says: "Our actions have an impact on everyone around us, within our neighbourhoods, communities and cities. And that more than ever, our actions are also being felt across borders and oceans."
Taking part in the webinar, cancer survivor Hashmat Rehana Chowdhury said she was nervous after being diagnosed, but the best thing was that the doctor allayed the fear and suggested the precautions necessary.
"I found the doctor and nurses very supportive and caring. As I regularly went to the oncology centre in Dhaka, the nurses and doctor became like my relatives," she said. Besides, her family, friends and colleagues all supported her.
A teacher by profession, Rehana Chowdhury said she had to continue her job, though work hours were reduced. Her colleagues at the school too were caring.
"I had confidence in caregivers, doctors, and above all Allah," she said.
She said people in general are very afraid of cancer and think they need to go abroad for treatment. That perception has proved to be wrong in her case, she said.
"I have full confidence in the treatment and care provided at home," said Rehana.
Another survivor Habiba Monsur said she was also very afraid when she was diagnosed with cancer. However, there were some issues with the diagnosis that prompted her family and relatives to decide to take her to India.
"However, the doctor in India suggested that the medical protocol that was prescribed in Bangladesh was fine. Eventually, I returned home and continued the treatment and survived the cancer," she said.
While undergoing treatment, she had body pain. The doctor then suggested yoga, which eventually relieved her pain, she said.
"My husband was also very supportive. The doctor had shared possible reactions to medication and so I was prepared to face those," Habiba said.
"The doctor clearly suggested that I should not worry, but remain mentally strong. I tried hard to be so. This is very important," she added.
Her husband Monsur happily shared how mutual understanding, love and affection during the critical days of the disease can help a patient.
He said they had a social pressure to go to India, but then realised that the treatment was same at home. "Actually, my employer provided financial assistance for the treatment. So, I had no major problem. But, quality treatment of cancer is very much possible within the country."
Dr Zafor Md Masud, professor and head at the Department of Oncology at Bangladesh Medical College & Hospital, said there is no guarantee that cancer treatment would be the best abroad.
Bangladesh has high quality medicine and a healthcare system available now. Mutual understanding between doctors, nurses, family and the patient is very important. Also, lifestyle plays an important role. Social awareness among all on cancer is the key, said Dr Masud, who moderated the discussion.
Dr Shahriar Islam, portfolio manager of Eskayef Oncology, said Eskayef Oncology has state-of-the-art manufacturing facility equipped with many pioneering technologies like ISOLATOR, processes and skilled professionals.
Recently, Eskayef Oncology has touched another milestone with anti-cancer medicine, as it has become one of the few Asian companies to achieve approval from the prestigious global regulatory body -- European Union Good Manufacturing Practice (EU GMP) -- for anti-cancer drugs, he said.
The EU GMP, recognised by the 27 nations of the EU, is considered a passport for entry to the global market. Eskayef can now produce both oral and injectable anti-cancer medicines, maintaining the standard of the EU regulator.
"With all the latest technologies, facilities and our earnest commitment, Eskayef Oncology is determined to serve humanity in Bangladesh and across the world with its affordable, global-standard anti-cancer products," said Dr Shahriar.
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