Chennai: “Usually, when someone feels their body is undergoing physical uneasiness, they should get it tested immediately. The three commonly occurring cancers in India are those of the breast, uterine cervix and oral cancer. Together, they account for approximately 35 per cent of all cancers in India. Screening is effective in the prevention, as also early detection of cancer,” said Saveetha Medical College Hospital professor, Medical Oncology, Dr Anita Ramesh.
Speaking at a cancer awareness event – Conquer 2019 – organised by Freedom from Cancer Relief and Research Foundation in association with Saveetha Medical Center here Thursday, she said, “Every year, we gather our well-wishers to celebrate the spirit of cancer survivors. These celebrations provide an opportunity for survivors to converse, draw support and get advice from others who share similar experience and rejoice. It is an occasion for cancer survivors to come together and celebrate the new reality in cancer survivorship.”
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences founder-Chancellor, Dr N M Veeraiyan, said, “Improvements in the area of molecular genetics has greatly helped both in the early detection and personalised treatment of the disease. People should understand that cancer is curable and one can lead a normal life after surviving cancer.”
Around 200 cancer survivors including children participated in the event.
Some of the survivors shared their success stories of fighting against cancer, elaborated on how positive attitude, will power and strong support system played a crucial role in their recovery.
Cancer survivors, including children, participated in various cultural performances. The funds raised from the event will be utilised in spreading cancer awareness and cancer treatment for underprivileged children, a press release said.
BJP State president Tamilisai Soundararajan and actor-cum-director Ameer participated.