Manipal Hospital Rangapani, a leading unit of the Manipal Hospitals, on Sunday issued a detailed advisory urging cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy and those who have recently completed treatment to exercise special caution during Holi to avoid preventable health complications.
The hospital said radiation therapy makes the treated skin extremely sensitive and fragile, increasing the risk of irritation and adverse reactions from chemical-based colours. Patients currently under treatment have been strongly advised not to apply artificial colours or any chemical substances on treated areas, except prescribed ointments. If participating in celebrations, colours should be used sparingly, strictly avoiding treated regions, with preference given to natural colours. The advisory also warned that immunity levels remain low during and after therapy, making food hygiene critical, while alcohol and intoxicants such as bhang must be avoided.
Special caution has been advised for lung cancer patients, as exposure to powdered colours may trigger allergic reactions, respiratory distress, or aggravate pre-existing conditions such as COPD.
Dr Prithwijit Moitra, Associate Consultant – Radiation Oncology, said moderation and medical consultation are essential to prevent health setbacks. In Siliguri, the advisory comes amid brisk Holi sales, with traders reporting rising demand for herbal and skin-friendly colours, reflecting growing health awareness among consumers in the region.
