Medical experts and activists specialised in cancer care emphasised how swiftly a negative narrative surrounding cancer is shared in media outlets.

They noted that even public figures and celebrities are hesitant to openly share their struggles against cancer.

They were interacting with the social science students of St. Xavier's College on Sunday.

Dr Sandhya Chapagain, a radiation oncologist at Bir Hospital, emphasised that the presence of cancer cells in the human body does not mean ‘the end of life’.

She highlighted the advancements in medical science, particularly sophisticated interventions, that enabled doctors to effectively cure cancers.

Consequently, there is no need for a person with carcinoma to panic, but follow their physicians, she said.

Sworupa Shrestha, a cancer activist, sharing her experiences and encounters with cultural challenges in cancer campaigns, emphasised the need for community-level awareness.

She highlighted the pervasive and powerful influence of media, warning that individuals need to be cautious about the content they consume.

Chun Bahadur Gurung, faculty coordinator of the MediaTalk series, underscored the need for a transformative shift in how people express and discuss cancer care.

“I’ve witnessed individuals leading normal lives after overcoming carcinoma. It should not be perceived as a death sentence,” he said. “The negative narrative associated with cancer must be corrected with accurate and effective communication.”

The series themed ‘communicating cancer care’ aimed to sensitise students on cancer care and misconceptions, the college said.