As we celebrate ‘Bladder Cancer Awareness Month’, Medica Group of Hospitals made an announcement to establish a ‘Bladder Cancer Support Group’ for the bladder cancer survivors. At the event, Dr. Abhay Kumar, Head of Urology, Surgical Oncology, and Robotic Surgery at Medica Superspecialty Hospital, highlighted some myths and facts along with the signs that might indicate bladder cancer.
The event also witnessed some real-life Heroes who have fought cancer, defied all obstacles, including societal pressures and economic adversities, and still have not called it quits. Following the announcement, the cancer survivors hosted a cultural program for the attendees at the event.
The hour-long event and the interactive session took the viewers through clinically oriented topics ranging from defining the symptoms of this cancer to the technicalities of managing the same for well-being.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abhay Kumar, Head of Urology, Surgical Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Medica Superspecialty Hospital, said, “Don’t Go Red Go to a Doctor, is the theme for Bladder Cancer Awareness Month this year which focuses on overcoming embarrassment in our lives. We are often too uncomfortable to discussor seek professional help because the symptoms are similar to that of a urinary tract infection. Due tolack of awareness, India alone reports close to 20,000 new cases every year. If detected early these types of cancers are treatable, however, there is a risk of tumor recurrence, which necessitates regular monitoring.”
He further added,“Bladder cancer is common cancer, and the treatment requires long-term follow-up, which causes the person and family a lot of anxiety, which adds to the stress. To have a perceived mental frame of mind for the patient, caregivers must provide a lot of support. As a result, it necessitates the need for a support group, which does not exist much in Eastern India. As a result, in honor of Bladder Cancer Awareness Month, we have established this support group to help patients and caregivers understand the disease, treatments, and outcomes.This will strive to create a forum for Bladder Cancer survivors to gather and share their stories and concerns, giving them the feeling that they are not alone.”
Mr. Devprasad Ghosh, a 76-year-old former West Bengal State Electricity Board official, was diagnosed with bladder cancer. During the examination, it was discovered that one of his kidneys was not functioning properly. A radical cystectomy was performed to remove his bladder, as well as a left nephrectomy, a left kidney, and a small hole in the abdomen to replace the bag in which the urine originated and was deposited (stoma or Ileal Conduit in medical language). Both the operation and the recovery period were extremely successful. He is now living a healthy lifestyle with no complications.
Other survivors shared too their experiences at Medica, emphasizing the amenities provided by the hospital to alleviate the already stressful experience of undergoing cancer treatment. There were lively performances for the guests’ entertainment, which were enjoyed by both staff and patients. The Medica staff recognizes the value of community and support, and the event’s success was largely due to this hopeful support group, which had found a new lease on life.
