In an earnest effort to raise awareness about cancer, particularly breast and cervical cancers among women, the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN), along with student welfare council of the Institute, organised a talk by Dr Riddhi Shah from Zydus Hospital on the topic “Cancer Prevention and Early Diagnosis Among Women” on February 05, 2024. While the focus of the talk was on the prevalence of cancer among women, it was also aimed at recognising that awareness extends beyond gender boundaries to aid prevention and early detection to reduce its impact on individuals and communities.
Through her informative talk, Dr Riddhi Shah addressed various aspects associated with cancer among men and women, including breast cancer, cervical cancer, mouth cancer, and lung cancer; the most common reasons for its occurrence; measures and tests for its prevention or early detection; myths prevalent among the common population; associated therapies; and HPV vaccination.
Addressing the audience, which also encouragingly comprised of many male members of the community, Dr Riddhi Shah said, “Breast cancer is the most common cancer, and cervical cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in India. Fortunately, both of these can be detected in their early stages with regular self-monitoring and treated with minimal medical intervention to prevent major health risks. It is important that women know their body organs from an early age and their problems and symptoms. We need to change our knowledge, attitudes, and practices to change everything. We need to overcome our fears of primary intervention and tests to prevent it from reaching a serious stage.”
She emphasised that by understanding the nuances of prevention and early detection through regular medical tests, we equip ourselves to be a pillar of support for all our loved ones. For breast cancer self-examination, she recommended referring to easy-to-understand information available on www.knowyourlemons.com, a global charity solely dedicated to the early detection of breast cancer.
The talk was attended by students, faculty, staff, and other community members at the Institute. Welfare Council and Medical Chemistry Course students had also collaborated with Nyasa and Palette Club to plan events for creating awareness.