HealthCare Global Enterprises Ltd (HCG), south Asia’s largest cancer care network, in collaboration with the Stanford University, will commence clinical trials using CyberKnife, an advanced treatment option for cancer patients. The current invasive surgery is no longer being preferred by many patients suffering from brain, spine, lung and prostrate cancer as they prefer the novel painless laser intervention prescribed by the oncologists.

CyberKnife is the first and only whole body radio surgery which has been used to treat a variety of cancers. Stanford University has been working on cancer treatment, apart from cardiac and neuro-psychological disorders. The medico-scientists have been able to achieve success to target the diseased cells. “The trials will begin by the year end at the Bangalore centre which has the CyberKnife and we will coordinate with our network of 17 centres across India for patient recruitment. We are working on the modalities,” said Dr B S Ajai Kumar, chairman & CEO, HCG.

Over 100 patients have undergone treatment in the last three months with CyberKnife. Out of these only one breast cancer patient opted for radio surgery. “The treatment has been successful and we are taking her case has a example for future course of therapies,” he added.

The hospital was observing the World Breast Cancer day observed globally on October 24. In a bid to dispel the myths and promote early diagnosis, HCG as the facilitator of Pink Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, launched a ‘Breast Cancer Handbook’ to guide for women to deal with the disease.

The challenge is to create awareness about growing incidence of breast cancer not only in urban centres but also in rural areas. “With breast cancer increasingly afflicting women even in their early 30s and 40s , we need to encourage women to visit doctors for early detection as it is the best possible remedy,” said Dr Niti Raizada, consultant, Medical Oncology and Consultant-in-charge, Center, Breast Health & Genetic Counselling Clinic, HCG.

It is estimated that 1 in 22 women are diagnosed of breast cancer in India. New cases globally are around 1.50 million annually. Around 3.50 lakh cases are detected in Europe alone Awareness about breast cancer is minimal in India. The handbook would help to increase sensitivity of the disorder to goad women not to ignore early symptoms or even consult doctor. The handbook not only allays fears but also imbibes basic knowledge of the disease as well as its treatment protocols and in the process prepare patients for any eventuality, said Sashi Venkat and Roopa Venkatesh, members, Pink Hope Breast Cancer Support Group.