HYDERABAD, April 3: Physicians warned people against use of tobacco and other hazardous material which are adding to an increasing number of cancer patients in the country.

This was stated at a one-day awareness workshop on HIV/AIDS, cancer and hepatitis here on Tuesday.

The programme was organised by Hyderabad Sarwar and Jewellers Group in collaboration with society for Environmental and Development for National Youth (SEDNY).

Speaking on the occasion noted oncologist of the city Dr.Mohammad Ali Memon cautioned people to avoid use of tobacco and gutka as the products contained extremely hazardous ingredients like catechu, slaked lime and betel nut. He spoke about various cases of cancer that he had examined and was still dealing with.

He briefed people about nature of general cancer cases in the country. He said oral cancer is the second most common in nature in our country but people remained oblivious of it and continued to consume items like mainpuri, gutka and tobacco.

“Last ten year's study proves that in Pakistan 11 to 15 per cent are oral cancer cases being caused by consumption of tobacco and other dangerous ingredients”, he said.

Dr Mairajudidn said Pakistan stood at number seven in the world when it comes to diabetic patients.