Around 1.4 million people are suffering from various types of cancer in Bangladesh, the state- owned news agency BSS reported on Monday quoting oncologists.

Oncologists at a discussion here on Monday also said some 200, 000 people are diagnosed with cancer every year in the country, the report said.

They said at the discussion on "Cancer Awareness, Prevention and Control Program in Bangladesh: Focus on Cervical and Breast Cancer" that women aged 35 to 40 are at high risk of cervical cancer.

Suraiya Rahman, a renowned oncologist, at the discussion attributed the risk to the lack of effective cancer screening and awareness.

Oncologists identified some risk factors of breast cancer as human replacement therapy, drinking of polluted water, chemical- mixed foods like fruits and vegetables.

They underscored the need for monthly medical check up of women for early detection of the disease as early diagnosis can completely cure the disease.