Health experts and medical professionals have unanimously stated that a significant proportion of cancers can be prevented through awareness, healthy lifestyle choices, and timely screening. They warned that without effective preventive measures, cancer could pose a major public health crisis in the coming decades.
On Wednesday evening (4 February), to mark World Cancer Day 2026, the Wellbeing Foundation, JCI Dhaka Diplomats, and State University of Bangladesh jointly organised a virtual seminar titled “Cancer Prevention: Lifestyle, Environment, and Awareness”. The event brought together health professionals, students, volunteers, and the general public from across the country to discuss strategies for cancer prevention.
The Guest of Honour, Professor Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain, Chairman of the Public Health Department at State University of Bangladesh, emphasised, “Early awareness, regular screening, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are crucial in preventing cancer. Engaging young people through university and community initiatives can significantly reduce long-term cancer risks.”
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Dr. Md. Habibullah Talukdar, President of the Bangladesh Cancer Foundation. He highlighted that a large portion of cancers are preventable. Avoiding tobacco, maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and timely medical examinations can play a critical role in lowering cancer risk. He also stressed the importance of expanding community-based cancer services and preventive programmes.
Professor Dr. Syed Abdul Hamid, from the Department of Health Economics at Dhaka University, pointed out that the cost of cancer treatment imposes significant financial burdens on many families. He warned that mere discussions or awareness campaigns are insufficient. Without effective preventive measures, the number of cancer patients in Bangladesh could increase sharply over the next 15–20 years, necessitating comprehensive government policies and coordinated initiatives.
Dr. Ali Nafisa underlined the importance of breast cancer prevention in women, citing regular screening, self-examination, and early medical intervention as critical. Delayed diagnosis, she noted, often leads to more complex and costly treatments. Guest speaker Aisha Siddiqua emphasised the role of a healthy diet in cancer prevention, recommending abundant fruits and vegetables while limiting processed foods.
Media responsibility in shaping public understanding was highlighted by Mujahid Shuvo, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Health Reporters Forum, who stressed the need for accurate information to dispel misconceptions, fear, and superstition regarding cancer. Mr. Md. Anisul Islam highlighted the effective use of social media and digital content to raise awareness, calling on young people to actively participate.
The seminar was hosted by Md. Rajikul Hasan, President of the Wellbeing Foundation, who remarked, “Cancer prevention is not the responsibility of a single organisation. Individuals, families, communities, and the state must work together.”
Key Preventive Measures for Cancer:
| Preventive Measure | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|
| Tobacco Avoidance | Stop smoking and avoid all tobacco products |
| Healthy Diet | Include plenty of fruits and vegetables; limit processed foods |
| Regular Exercise | Minimum 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week |
| Timely Screening | Screening for breast, cervical, gastric, and colorectal cancers |
| Awareness Campaigns | Education in schools, universities, social media, and mass media |
The seminar concluded with a consensus that reducing cancer risk requires combined efforts in lifestyle modification, policy support, and community engagement. Experts urged immediate and coordinated action to mitigate the projected rise in cancer cases over the next two decades.