GEM HOSPITAL: DELIVERING THE BEST TREATMENT SOLUTIONS FOR GASTRO RELATED CANCERS

In the last decade, there has been a significant rise in the number of cancer cases and the cause of con-cern is, it has begun affecting the younger generation. What was once meant to be an ailment for those who crossed 60 years of age is now affecting those who crossed 40. We spoke to Dr. P.Senthilnathan, Head, Department of Minimal Access, GI Oncology & Liver Transplantation, GEM Hospital, Chennai and here are his thoughts.

Is it true that the younger generation is becoming susceptible to cancer lately?

Yes. As a Gastroenterologist, I come across cases wherein cancers related to esophagus, stomach, colon, pancreas, liver, gall bladder are seen frequently. The cause of concern is cancers that come in aged people or infants have a predictable and established pattern but when it comes to someone aged in their 30s they are very aggressive and without any particular pattern. It is here that we focus on having a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the symptoms which suggest consulting a specialist?

Some of the common symptoms could be difficulty in swallowing, persistent abdominal pain or gastric trouble, constipation, bleeding in stool, loss of appetite and weight. These are warning signs and irrespective of age they call for a visit to the specialist. In particular, youngsters must never ig-more such symptoms.

What are the causes for this alarming trend?

Primarily, it is the food habits. Having too much spicy and oily diet, eating processed food frequently, the lack of physical exercise, lifestyle changes also contribute. In recent times, smoking and drinking has percolated deeply even among teens, it is another factor. To some extent, it is also the changing environment, pollution, plastic usage, adulteration, occupational hazards such as exposure to chemicals which are probably adding to the damage.

What is the advantage of getting treated at GEM

It is the expertise, experience and the approach towards a case. We follow a multidisciplinary approach wherein our team of specialists evaluate the case and then determine the prognosis. We have an organ based team of specialists and surgeons which sets the right foundation for treatment. Also, our infrastructure is robust as we can do immunotherapy and targeted therapy. We also have the latest robotic surgery facility wherein with the available technology we can go to the root and. identify the spread of cancer: We use technology like Firefly and through im-age guidance and special cameras we can target the specific affected area.

How about the cost element

The cost for getting treated at GEM is quite competent when compared to the market standards and in some cases, it could be lesser too. While Laparoscopic and Open surgery are about the same cost, the robotic method is marginally higher but this is more recommended. because it is precise, the recovery time is quicker and it is minimally invasive causing less inconvenience to the patient.

What are the preventive measures to avoid cancer?

As one reaches their mid 30s or early 40s, they should focus on primordial. prevention. Having a very healthy life-style, exercising regularly, remaining. stress free, following a balanced and. proportionate diet, staying away from. Drugs, alcohol, and smoking brings in lots of health benefits. Also, undertaking the annual health check up once they cross 40 is a must. And if anyone is having any recurring symptoms as mentioned earlier, they must visit a specialist and undergo special tests such as colonoscopy, endoscopy just to be doubly safe. With advanced technology and. early detection, even cancer can be curtalled.

For more information, contact: Gem Hospital. Address: MDR452, Gandhi Nagar, Thiruvengadam Nagar, Perungudi, Chennai-600096 044 6166 6666 9500200600 frontoffice@gemistitute.in