Home / Health / Cancer Ignored: Women Seek Care Too Late
Cancer Ignored: Women Seek Care Too Late
8 Feb
Summary
- 65% of women with cancer seek treatment at advanced stages.
- Uttar Pradesh has extremely low cancer screening participation.
- Lack of awareness and access are major reasons for delayed treatment.
In Uttar Pradesh, a critical health issue has emerged, with 65% of women diagnosed with various cancers, including breast, cervical, and ovarian, at advanced or terminal stages. This delay in seeking medical attention is largely attributed to the neglect of initial symptoms and a profound lack of awareness regarding the curability of cancer in its early phases.
Participation in cancer screening programs across Uttar Pradesh remains exceptionally low. Data reveals that only 1.5% of women between 30 and 49 years of age are screened for cervical cancer, while the rate for breast cancer screening is even lower, at approximately 0.4%. This situation is exacerbated by limited access to regular health check-ups, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.
Experts highlight that social inhibitions, financial constraints, and overwhelming family responsibilities prevent many women from prioritizing their health. While screening facilities are gradually expanding in Lucknow and its surrounding areas, a concerted effort is needed to boost awareness and encourage timely medical intervention to combat the rising tide of advanced cancer cases among women.
