THE WAR UPON GANGER.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 July 1930, Page 10

THE WAR UPON GANGER.

Though it is upwards of a. generation since a concerted effort was made: in the war upon cancer by the establishment of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund, it cannot be claimed that victory over the disease has been attained. On the contrary mortality statistics have shown a progressive increase in the number of deaths due to cancer. It is true that more skilful diagnosis and ■more comprehensive statistics may have contributed to the results shown in the official returns, but the fact remains that in New Zealand and Australia one out of every nine deaths is due to cancer. Apparently the disease is one effecting middle aged and elderly people the young. The last generamuch progress made in ■fcWic health, the result of prolongation of a l ai T er • J .v ,*>H’s ’*. *’ prone to e ' ll

value, and with research work proceeding throughout the civilised world it was hoped that more definite progress would soon be accomplished. In the meantime the periodic overhaul by a medical attendant seems to be one of the principal safeguards against becoming a victim to cancer. Early detection is the prime necessity for successful treatment, and what to the patient may appear but a trifling matter may, if left too long, prove incurable. It has 1 been made clear by the highest authority that at present there is no specific cure for cancer. Every case must be treated on its merits —a warning that those inclined to put their faith in alleged curative agents would be wise to remember. Given early detection and proper treatment, cures of cancer are possible, and are becoming more frequent. But the public must do its share by seeking medical advice as early as possible. . .. .