UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Results:Rajasthan is a backward state of India. Rajasthan Cancer Society (RCS) started functioning 13 years back. Since then it has been facing challenges and learning to work in limited resources with social & cultural barriers. RCS was the first to start cancer data compilation in Rajasthan by a simple method. Head and Neck form the largest group of cancers here. The tobacco problem in this region is unique due to the habit of chewing ‘Pan Masala, Gutka'etc. Surrogate advertisement is rampant. Availability of small pouches and social acceptance has made it into an epidemic even in children – the future tobacco addicts. It was found that High school and college education program were most effective – ‘catch them young'. It has a dual effect, one is the preventive role in children themselves and in effectively stopping usage at home by parents. Not only Patients but physicians are equally responsible for presentation in advanced stages. ‘Knowledge Gap' was one of the reasons for delay in definitive diagnosis & treatment. Significant advances in medical research and technology has to reach the periphery. RCS has organized International and National meetings within reach of General practioner. In the paucity of recertification and compulsory updation of knowledge this seems to be the most effective strategy. The motto being ‘train the teachers first'. RCS is making efforts to develop practical strategies for cancer & tobacco control.