Ahead of World Cancer Day2024, Sri Ramakrishna Hospital – Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research,Coimbatore launched Dynamic QR Code with complete cancer awareness information in Tamil and English, and a year-long Free Mammogram Screening campaign for women on Saturday.

The launch event was held at Smt.Velumaniammal Memorial Hall in the hospital premises. It was presided by C.V.Ramkumar, CEO, SNR Sons Charitable Trust. Dr.P.Guhan, Director, Sri RamakrishnaInstitute of Oncology and Research welcomed the gathering.

The Chief Guest, K.Bhavaneeswari IPS, Inspector General of Police, West Zone,Coimbatore launched these two impactful initiatives of Sri Ramakrishna Hospital– Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research, and congratulated them.

Speaking at the event, Dr.P.Guhan said that the number of cancer cases in India After 2022 is14.67 lakh. In women, Breast cancer is found to be the commonest cancer, whereas in men it is Lung cancer.

Statistics state that 1 in every 22 women may develop breast cancer. If women exercise caution right from the moment they witness any slight difference in their breasts and consult with an expert, they will be recommended the right tests to confirm if they are at risk. With the necessary medical guidance and care, women can beat breast cancer.

Unfortunately, majority of women do not seek medical evaluation either due to fear or hesitation; hence 50% of patients who come for breast cancer treatment arrive with advanced stages. Patients with such stages of breast cancer can be treated but the chances of saving them completely from cancer are low.

In men, most cases of lung cancer, esophageal cancer, oral cavity cancer,throat cancer are mainly due to tobacco and alcohol. If men quit tobacco, 60% of cancer incidents among them can be reduced.

Since there is only limited awareness about cancers in India, especially in the rural areas, the burden of cancer too is rising in our country.SRIOR since its inception has been running various cancer awareness campaigns in the urban and rural parts of Coimbatore and its neighbouring regions.

“We stepped up our efforts by undertaking numerous Digital Awareness Activities over the years. We introduced Cancer Awareness Audios, Animated Videos, E-Books,Websites, FlipBooks, etc. in Tamil and English. These contents talk about almost all cancer in general, their types, causes, symptoms, treatment options,etc. They are highly informative and easily comprehensible.”

“This year, we have brought together all our extensive cancer awareness contents under one platform. They can be freely accessed by anyone just by scanning the dynamic QR code that we have launched today.”“Also, women aged 45 and above can get their breasts examined at SRIOR. Those who require mammogram screening can get it free of cost on all working days between the hours 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.”

“We undertake these initiatives so that greater awareness about cancer could be created,” Dr.Guhan said.Dr.Karthikesh, Surgical Oncologist, SRIOR proposed Vote of Thanks.