Following the extensive campaign in support of the measles-rubella vaccination drive in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, Apothecary, the volunteer group formed by the students of Government Medical College, Kozhikode, is planning to launch an awareness drive on breast cancer and cervical cancer.
Titled ‘Sakhi’, the two-month-long drive will be held in association with ‘Jeevathalam’, an initiative of the Kozhikode district panchayat for comprehensive cancer control.
Nirmal Krishnan, second year MBBS student and a member of the group, told The Hindu on Monday that awareness classes would be held in Peruvayal, Kunnamangalam, Peruvanna, Olavanna, and Kuruvattoor grama panchayats.
Residents of 104 wards would be covered with the support of Kudumbasree volunteers.
“As many as 50 girl students will undertake classes and distribute brochures among local residents from next week. Screening camps will be held in the second phase,” said Mr. Krishnan.
Medical tests
Senior doctors from the medical college hospital will examine suspected cases and refer them to the hospital for detailed tests.
A sum of ₹50,000 has been earmarked for providing free medicines to those patients from the economically weaker sections of society.
Ladeeda Rayya, member of the State committee of SFI medicos, which set up up Apothecary, said the project was conceived in view of the increasing number of cervical cancer and breast cancer cases in the State.
An orientation class for volunteers was conducted by Rameshan C.K., assistant professor, department of gynaecology, medical college, on Monday.
