Oncologist Raja of Apollo Hospitals while speaking at the launch of a Cancer Detection Programme said that around 90% people develop lung and oral cancer because of smoking.

Prathap C. Reddy, who is the Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals group, stated that in India there are as many as 25 lakh people who are suffering from cancer, more than 8 lakh new cases are reported every year and around 5.5 lakh people die from the deadly disease.

He further said that in addition to cancer, diabetes and heart disease cases are also maximum in India.

Apollo Hospitals have started the Cancer Detection Programme in association with Rotary Club of Madras Midtown in order to spread awareness about the risk factors and early detection of cancer.

The Rotary Cancer and Research Foundation is a charitable trust and works for the poor cancer patients.

Dr. Reddy also said that if early detection and proper preventable measures are taken at the right time, then as many as 5,000 persons’ lives in India can be saved.

Apollo Hospitals has agreed to give 30% extra discount on the present cancer screening duties. The hospital will also give away the 25% earnings from tariffs to the charity for the treatment of underprivileged patients.