A courageous outlook, albeit seldom seen. Generally, cancer patients struggle with issues of diagnosis and treatment. Shock and disbelief are usually immediate reactions to the diagnosis. Mixed emotions of anxiety, anger and depression follow as it sinks in. As options and treatment plans are discussed, the patient starts to adjust and prepare for the next steps.

The problem with cancer is its constantly increasing incidence rates. The statistics from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) show that cancer cases in India are rising[i] at an alarming rate and the situation isn’t going to improve going by ICMR projections for 2020[ii].

This isn’t just another quote for people who’ve lived through the most challenging phase of their life- ‘battling Cancer’ and finally, managed to survive through it. Just thinking about the disease gives anyone goosebumps, so imagine how incredibly difficult it would have been for those who’ve fought with it. Along with medical treatments, their willpower and the support of loved ones must have been an important anchor for them during such rough times.

Cancer, as we know, is a life-threatening disease that causes malignant cells to grow in the body at an uncontrollable rate. Curing cancer is mostly possible, only when it is detected at an early stage. So, timely diagnosis and treatment is a key factor for survival.

However, even treatment of cancer is a daunting struggle in itself, because of the intense challenges involved throughout. So, let us have a look at some brave cancer survivors who fought and won over this deadly disease-

Cancer can afflict anyone. Yet, when it comes to preparedness for cancer, most of us believe that we don’t need to. Why? Because we are all fit and healthy, miles away from cancer, and that is not without good reason either. Who could have guessed that Yuvraj Singh, a famous Indian cricketer, who was instrumental in leading the team to a world cup win, would soon be battling cancer? Luckily, he was diagnosed early and fought back to win the battle.

After a good workout in my gym the other day, I had an interesting conversation with my nutritionist, Seema. She was talking about how stress has become a consistent part of modern-day life. She said that while stress is the body’s natural reaction to challenges, prolonged exposure to it can have undesirable physiological and psychological consequences. It can trigger illnesses by causing changes in behaviour and physiology. This got me thinking.

Cancer insurance is health insurance. Therefore, it qualifies for tax exemption. Many people still use Mediclaim and health insurance interchangeably. Health insurance is a comprehensive one whereas Mediclaim is restricted to cashless hospitalisation or reimbursement whichever is feasible. Apart from other benefits that one can get buying cancer insurance, it is also considered health insurance for the tax purpose and enjoys tax benefit on premiums paid under section 80D of the Income Tax Act. The maximum limit for this premium depends on the following conditions: