Cancer is a class of diseases characterised by an abnormal growth of cells with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. The earlier it is diagnosed and treated, the better the chancesare of it being cured.  

Keeping this in mind, Punjab government’s decision to expand the scope of ongoing collaboration with international pharmaceutical company Novartis for the treatment of cancer patients calls for applause as the move will help mitigate the sufferings of cancer patients. Although the expansion of this programme is a step in the right direction, however, the need of the hour is to raise awareness among the masses about different types of cancers and encourage them to fight against it. Moreover, the government in coordination with Novartis must continue to strive for the provision of medicines and treatment facilities to cancer patients if it really is a sincere initiative. 

SHEHAR BANO SYED,  

Lahore, August 23.