VARANASI, Feb. 4 -- Experts have once again reiterated the importance of awareness and timely treatment, while tackling cancer. On the eve of World Cancer Day, observed on February 4, Dr Ashutosh Mukherjee, head, department of radiation oncology, Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Cancer Centre (MPMMCC), said that timely screening and detection at an early stage significantly improves treatment outcomes and simplifies the treatment process. However, he noted that many patients seek medical attention at an advanced stage of the disease, which poses additional challenges in treatment. The MPMMCC and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital (HBCH), Varanasi provide radiation therapy to an average of 350 patients daily as a result of installation of three additional radiation therapy machines last year. This has resulted in a significant increase in patient capacity. According to a joint release issued by both the centres, the number of patients receiving radiation therapy in 2025 increased by 30% as compared to 2024. Approximately 25% of patients undergoing radiation therapy are affected by oral cancer, primarily due to the consumption of tobacco and related products. Following oral cancer, breast cancer accounts for the second-highest number of patients receiving radiation therapy. On an average, a complete course of radiation therapy takes about 35 days, although the duration may vary depending on the patient's clinical condition. Dr Mukherjee stated that approximately 60-65% of patients visiting the hospital require radiation therapy at some stage of their treatment. He noted that in 2025, 4,735 patients received radiation therapy. He said that a total of six advanced radiation machines are now operational across both institutions, enabling treatment for a large number of patients on a daily basis. Dr Satyajit Pradhan, hospital director, stated that all six radiation machines are currently functional across both institutions. He reiterated that the hospital remains committed to providing timely, uninterrupted, and high-quality cancer care to every patient and continues to expand its facilities to further enhance patient services....