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�Vaccination, screening must to curb cervical cancer�

By Staff Reporter

GUWAHATI, Nov 17 � Vaccination followed by screening is essential if the incidence of cervical cancer has to be lowered. This strategy adopted in countries such as US, UK and the Netherlands has shown encouraging outcome, and should be implemented in the developing countries as well.

This was emphasised by Dr Brigitte FM Slangen of Maastricht University Medical Center, who is conducting a training programme in Gynaecologic Oncology at Dr B Borooah Cancer Institute, here.

Speaking exclusively to The Assam Tribune, the senior consultant gynaecologic oncologist said that cervical cancer poses risks to a large number of women around the world, and it strikes when the women are in the prime of their lives.

In most cases the disease afflicts a woman between the age of 30 and 40, a stage in life when she is likely to have young children. Her disease, therefore, affects her family and close ones, too.

The issue of cervical cancer, in her view, needs serious attention as it is a form of cancer that is actually preventable to a very great extent.

�Through vaccination women can be protected, but vaccination should be done at a stage when the person is young,� she noted.

Screening is equally important to respond to the challenge of cervical cancer, she stated and underlined the need for a highly structured mechanism that would encourage women to come in for tests. Later, a follow-up action would ensure that they continued to have protective cover.

On the role and importance of having gynaecologic oncologists in cancer treatment facilities, the Dutch doctor mentioned that doctors with such a background are better equipped to handle specific cases than other doctors. In the US and England, gynaecologic oncologists have been able to offer proper treatment to patients in need, and their roles are considered critical in reducing patient deaths.

Appreciating the work of Dr B Borooah Cancer Institute, she said that doctors here have high skills and knowledge about cancer care and treatment. She said that she has also enhanced her knowledge through interactions with the doctors of the institute.

Dr Slangen will also participate in the foundation day celebration of BBCI tomorrow in which she will deliver the keynote address on �Need of Gynaec Oncology as sub-speciality in the developing world�.

Dr AC Kataki, Director of BBCI revealed that the Dutch School of Gynaecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery is keen to continue training programmes here at the institute twice a year.

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