Dr. Shikha Mishra
Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital hosts awareness programme highlighting screening, early diagnosis and advances in treatment
Lead Reporting
Dehradun: Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve breast cancer outcomes, medical experts emphasised at a breast cancer awareness programme organised by the Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital on Saturday. The programme focused on recognising early warning signs, understanding screening and diagnostic methods, and addressing misconceptions surrounding the disease.
Experts urged women not to ignore unusual changes in their breasts, particularly a new lump, while cautioning against unnecessary panic. They stressed that a lump does not automatically indicate cancer and that timely medical evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The programme was inaugurated by Professor Dr Neel Kamal Kumar, Director of Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences and Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital, and Head of the Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, who lit the ceremonial lamp at the hospital auditorium.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Kumar said breast cancer is among the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, with cases also being reported in younger women. He emphasised that a breast cancer diagnosis should not be viewed as the end of life, as early detection can make successful treatment possible and, in many cases, lead to recovery.
He added that identifying the disease at an early stage may reduce the need for extensive surgery or chemotherapy in some patients. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, timely screening, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a substantial difference to patient outcomes. He also noted that most breast lumps are benign, underlining the importance of medical assessment rather than fear or neglect.
Dr Vinita Gupta, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, explained the importance of breast self-awareness and familiarising oneself with normal breast changes. She discussed how women can recognise unusual changes and seek medical advice promptly.
Medical oncologist Dr Nishant Sinha highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and explained how delays in evaluating symptoms can affect the course of treatment. He also discussed risk factors, clinical assessment and treatment options based on the stage and nature of the disease.
Dr Seema Acharya elaborated on diagnostic procedures, including clinical examinations, imaging and biopsy when required. She explained that these investigations help establish the diagnosis and assess the nature of the disease, enabling doctors to develop an appropriate treatment plan for each patient.
Students spread awareness through creative initiatives
The programme also featured awareness activities designed to engage the public. Students from the Mass Communication Department of Shri Guru Ram Rai University presented a street play to spread awareness about breast cancer, while students from the School of Yogic Science and Naturopathy demonstrated yoga postures and shared tips on maintaining physical well-being.
A poster competition was also organised, with winners receiving prizes in recognition of their efforts.
Heads of various hospital departments, doctors, medical students and staff members attended the programme, which sought to encourage informed health decisions, reduce misconceptions and reinforce the importance of timely medical consultation for suspected breast cancer symptoms.
