For these 250 odd engineering students, this was one non-technical class they were glad they did not miss. For, it created immense awareness on the deadliest type of cancer in the country affecting women in just two hours. The Hindu in association with Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation organised an awareness programme on “ABC of Breast Health” at the CMR College of Engineering and Technology on Friday.
The programme focused on covering every aspect of breast cancer and conveyed it to the female students of the college in great depth. Helming the programme was P. Raghu Ram, CEO, Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation, and president-elect, The Association of Breast Surgeons of India, who highlighted the myths and facts attached to breast cancer.
“Breast cancers are a taboo even in the cities and 60 per cent of the breast cancer cases are detected in advance stages,” said Dr. Raghu Ram, “While cervical cancer is the commonest type of cancer in India, breast cancer are most common in urban areas.”
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Expressing concern over the inefficient and unethical standards in the medical fraternity, Dr. Raghu Ram informed the students that one must go for triple tests, clinical examination, mammography and ultrasound as well as biopsy, to confirm or negate breast cancer condition.
Citing the recent example of Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie who had undergone double mastectomy, he explained the pros ands cons of testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and its implications on the society at large.
The pivotal role of nutritional diet with respect to cancers was well articulated by Janaki Srinath, president, Indian Dietetic Association, A.P. chapter, who spoke on the topic “Role of Food and Diet in Cancer Preventions and Management”.
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Apart from explaining a variety of foods that can prevent cancer, she also spoke on the general practice that needs to be inculcated for a healthy living. Towards the end of the programme, a booklet on breast cancer awareness was distributed among the students.