Cancer Survivors Share Experiences, Stress Need for Early Detection and Awareness

Bhaktapur, June 23: Cancer survivors shared their personal journeys of recovery and resilience during an awareness and motivation programme organized by Suryabinayak Municipality in coordination with the Nepal Cancer Survivors Society.

The day-long programme brought together cancer survivors, health professionals and local representatives to discuss challenges faced during treatment and recovery. Participants raised questions related to post-treatment health complications, the possibility of cancer recurrence, and reproductive health after recovery.

Senior oncologist Dr. Ujjwal Chalise addressed the concerns, providing information on cancer treatment, chemotherapy, lifestyle management and long-term care. He emphasized that cancer can often be cured if detected at an early stage, while treatment becomes significantly more difficult in advanced stages. He also stressed the importance of regular health check-ups, timely diagnosis, counselling and stress management in improving patients’ quality of life.

Dr. Chalise noted that women who have successfully recovered from cancer can generally conceive and lead normal reproductive lives. He further highlighted the need for greater public awareness to promote early detection and reduce misconceptions about the disease.

Speaking at the programme, Deputy Mayor Sarita Timsina Bhattarai said the experiences shared by cancer survivors could inspire hope and confidence among people currently undergoing treatment. She added that collaboration among local governments, health institutions and communities is essential to strengthen cancer care and support services.

Rabindra Sapkota, coordinator of the municipality’s social development committee, said cancer affects not only physical health but also mental, social and economic wellbeing. Health Section Chief Basant Chaulagain informed that nearly 240 cancer survivors in the municipality are currently receiving various health-related services and support from the local government.