Dr. Vijay Bansal
20 January 2026
Cancer awareness is not only about sharing statistics. It is about helping people recognise changes in their bodies, seek medical advice without unnecessary delay, understand when screening may be appropriate and support families facing a cancer diagnosis.
This message came alive during a community cancer-awareness programme and walkathon organised with Ivy Hospital and the Nargis Dutt Foundation. The programme brought healthcare professionals, public figures, community members and the media together around one practical goal: replacing fear and silence with reliable information and timely action.
Dr. Vijay Bansal participating in a panel discussion focused on cancer awareness and community education.
Community education during the cancer-awareness drive.
People often postpone medical evaluation because a symptom seems minor, does not cause pain or is associated with fear. Awareness programmes create a space where patients can learn that a persistent symptom deserves attention—even when it eventually proves to be non-cancerous.
The most useful awareness message is simple: notice persistent changes, seek qualified medical advice and do not let fear decide the timing of your consultation.
Early diagnosis and screening are related but different. Early diagnosis means evaluating symptoms promptly. Screening is offered to eligible people who do not have symptoms, with the aim of finding certain cancers earlier. The correct screening plan depends on age, personal history, family history, risk factors and professional medical guidance.
Early diagnosis: Prompt evaluation of symptoms or abnormal changes.
Screening: Testing eligible people before symptoms appear.
Second opinion: Additional expert review when diagnosis or treatment choices are complex.
Breast-awareness activities formed an important part of the programme. A new breast lump or thickening, change in breast shape, skin dimpling or redness, nipple changes, or abnormal nipple discharge should be medically evaluated. A lump does not automatically mean cancer, but it should not be ignored simply because it is painless.
A new lump, swelling or unexplained thickening; unusual bleeding or discharge; a sore or ulcer that does not heal; persistent difficulty swallowing or change in voice; blood in stool or a lasting change in bowel habits; unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue or loss of appetite. These symptoms can have many non-cancerous causes. The purpose of evaluation is to understand the cause—not to assume the worst.
A walkathon makes a health message visible. It encourages families to participate together and connects physical activity with long-term health. Regular activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol are among the broader health measures associated with reducing the risk of several cancers.
A memorable part of the programme was Dr. Vijay Bansal’s interaction with legendary runner Fauja Singh Ji during the cancer-awareness event and walkathon. His presence represented resilience, active living and the ability of community role models to make public-health messages more relatable across generations.
Regional media coverage in Punjabi and Hindi helped carry the awareness message beyond the event venue. Newspaper reports highlighted the importance of cancer awareness and timely detection, helping the discussion reach families across Punjab and Tricity.
Dr. Vijay Bansal is a Surgical Oncologist and expert Laparoscopy Surgeon associated with Livasa Hospital, Mohali. Along with surgical care, he supports cancer-awareness initiatives that encourage informed decision-making, timely consultation and clearer communication between patients, families and cancer specialists. Patients from Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula, Zirakpur, Kharar and across Punjab may consult for surgical oncology assessment, laparoscopic cancer surgery suitability or a cancer surgery second opinion.
General educational points in this article are informed by the World Health Organization’s resources on breast cancer, cancer early diagnosis and cancer prevention, and the US National Cancer Institute’s information on breast-cancer screening. Screening decisions should always be individualised with a qualified clinician.
Why is early detection important in cancer care?
Early diagnosis can allow treatment to begin sooner and may improve treatment options and outcomes. The appropriate pathway depends on the cancer type, symptoms, age, risk factors and available screening programmes.
Is cancer screening the same as early diagnosis?
No. Screening is offered to eligible people who do not have symptoms, while early diagnosis focuses on evaluating symptoms promptly. A doctor can advise which approach is appropriate.
What breast changes should not be ignored?
A new lump or thickening, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling or redness, nipple changes, or abnormal or bloody nipple discharge should be medically evaluated.
Does finding a lump always mean cancer?
No. Many lumps are non-cancerous, but a new or persistent lump should still be assessed by a qualified medical professional.
Book a consultation with Dr. Vijay Bansal at Livasa Hospital, Mohali for surgical oncology guidance or a second opinion.
