ERODE: Chemical dyes are affecting people in Erode, and if a person continuously inhales dyes containing chemicals such as amines he is likely to contract throat cancer. Using water containing dyes and chemicals can also cause cancer, says K. Velavan, oncologist and radiation consultant.

"People think cancer is equal to capital punishment. But the affected can postpone the death for a decade, if they undergo treatment on time," he says.Rural people are very much affected by the disease because of polluted environment and ignorance. "If detected at an early stage, a cancer patient can be saved, but if it is advanced stage, death is certain."

More than 10,000 people in Erode are affected with cancer, he adds. Every year, at least of 1,500 people undergo treatment for cancer in Chennai, Coimbatore and Vellore. Out of the 10,000-odd patients, about 60 per cent are poor labourers. Many of them are affected by throat cancer because of chewing tobacco, consuming alcohol or unhygienic food from roadside. The number of women affected with breast cancer and uterus cancer is also on the rise. Many women are reluctant to disclose the same to their family members or consult a doctor. Only in an advanced stage do they consult doctors and by the time it is too late, he says.

Obesity is another reason for cancer. At roadside eateries, spoiled oil is being used to fry food items, which affected health and led to cancer.

He says a society has been formed to establish a cancer centre in Erode at a cost of Rs. 1 crore contributed by a number of people. Cancer patients will be given radiotherapy, haemotherapy and surgery at a nominal cost.

Senthil Multi-Speciality Hospital in Erode is also planning to start a cancer hospital.

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