Chandigarh's Pink October Walkathon raises breast cancer awareness

In a collective effort to raise awareness about breast cancer, residents of Chandigarh, including breast cancer survivors, senior doctors from the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), and Government Medical College and Hospital (Sector 32), participated in a walkathon organized by the Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society. The event took place at Sukhna Lake, marking the observance of "Pink October" as Breast and Cervix Cancer Awareness Month.

Promoting early detection and treatment

The walkathon, aimed at educating women about the significance of early disease detection and proper treatment procedures, featured Dr. Pankaj Malhotra, Head of the Department of Clinical Haematology and Medical Oncology at PGIMER, and Dr. Bhavna, both of whom addressed participants' queries and provided valuable insights.

Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society president, Renu Saigal, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in spreading awareness about breast and cervix cancer, underscoring that it is a shared responsibility to empower individuals with knowledge about these critical health issues.

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The event saw diverse participation, with students from various schools, National Service Scheme volunteers, and National Cadet Corps cadets, including those from the Army, Air Force, and Navy Wings, joining in the walkathon. Breast cancer survivors shared their experiences and offered encouragement to attendees.

Creative awareness efforts

As part of the awareness campaign, students from St Soldier Divine Public School, Sector 16, Panchkula, performed a "nukkad natak" (street play) focused on this year's theme, "Keeping Her in The Picture," as designated by the National Cancer Information System (NCIS). The play aimed to convey crucial messages related to breast and cervix cancer awareness.

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This collaborative effort highlights the significance of community engagement in promoting early detection, treatment, and support for those affected by breast cancer, contributing to the overall well-being of the society.