Involving Intergenerational Bonding

This Grandparents’ Day, we celebrate the unique and enduring bond between grandparents and grandchildren. “Oh Cancer! You Stole Her” by Duha Bhat beautifully captures this special connection through the heartfelt story of a young girl and her cherished ‘Badi’, her grandma.

In early chapters, Duha vividly captures the tender moments of her childhood, filled with Badi’s unwavering love and care. The later chapters, where Badi’s health begins to decline with the diagnosis of Gall Bladder cancer, serve as a cruel twist of fate, shattering the family’s idyllic life.

In this touching narrative, the love and memories shared between generations shine brightly, reminding us of the deep impact grandparents have on their grandchildren’s lives. This day is dedicated to honoring the wisdom, stories, and unconditional love that grandparents provide, enriching our lives in countless ways.

Let’s take this opportunity to reflect on the moments of joy, learning, and affection that our grandparents have gifted us. Whether through storytelling, shared activities, or simple moments of togetherness, the bond between generations is a source of strength and inspiration.

As we commemorate Grandparents’ Day, let’s celebrate the intergenerational ties that shape our identities and communities. Through mutual respect, understanding, and love, we can nurture these relationships, creating lasting memories and a strong foundation for future generations. Today, we honor the irreplaceable role of grandparents in our lives and the priceless legacy of their love.

Cancer screening in seniors

For seniors, particularly those like Duha’s grandmother Badi, who was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer, it’s important to focus on routine screenings and proactive healthcare. Seniors should consult with their doctors to determine the most appropriate screening tests based on their age, health history and risk factors. This proactive approach can lead to early detection and better management of cancer, contributing to improved health outcomes and quality of life.

Screening for common cancers in seniors is crucial for early detection and treatment. Here are the recommended screening tests for common cancers, along with guidelines on who should undergo them:

Breast Cancer

Mammogram: Recommended every 1-2 years for women aged 50-74. Women 75 and older should discuss the need for screening with their doctor, considering overall health and personal risk factors.

Colorectal Cancer

Colonoscopy: Recommended every 10 years for adults aged 50-75. For those over 75, the decision should be based on individual health status and prior screening results. Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) or Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Annually for adults aged 50-75. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Every 5 years, or every 10 years with an annual FIT, for adults aged 50-75.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Men aged 55-69 should discuss the potential benefits of PSA screening with their doctor. Men 70 and older are generally not recommended to undergo routine screening unless they are at high risk.

Lung Cancer

Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT): Recommended annually for adults aged 55-80 who have a 30-pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Cervical Cancer

Pap Test and HPV Test: Women over 65 who have had regular screenings in the past 10 years with normal results do not need to be screened. Women with a history of cervical precancer should continue to be screened for 20 years after the initial diagnosis, even if this extends past age 65.

Skin Cancer

Skin Examination: Seniors should have regular skin checks by a doctor, especially if they have a history of skin cancer or have high-risk factors such as excessive sun exposure.

Esophageal Cancer

Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy - EGD): Not routinely recommended for screening in the general population, but individuals with symptoms or risk factors (such as chronic GERD) should discuss the need for screening with their doctor.

Gallbladder Cancer

Ultrasound and CT Scan: Not routinely recommended for screening in the general population. Individuals with a history of gallstones or chronic gallbladder inflammation should discuss the need for screening with their doctor.

Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

Endoscopy: Not routinely recommended for screening in the general population. Individuals with risk factors such as a family history of gastric cancer, chronic gastritis, or infection with Helicobacter pylori should discuss the need for screening with their doctor.

Liver Cancer

Ultrasound and Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Blood Test: Recommended every 6 months for individuals with chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or cirrhosis.

Pancreatic Cancer

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Not routinely recommended for screening in the general population. Individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer or genetic syndromes that increase risk should discuss screening options with their doctor.

Kidney Cancer

CT Scan or MRI: Not routinely recommended for screening in the general population. Individuals with risk factors such as a family history of kidney cancer or certain genetic conditions should discuss screening with their doctor.

Note: All seniors who have any particular family history of any cancer, especially in the first-degree relation, should positively go for the screening of that particular cancer. Any kind of screening should be done only after talking to your doctor.