Chennai, Aug 10:
Around 3,000 women participated in the Singappen Marathon, an 8-km run held at Island Grounds on Sunday to raise awareness about cervical cancer prevention and women’s safety.
The event, organised by the Rotary Club of Madras Central, Inner Wheel Clubs of District 323 and the Singappen Special Force (SSF), began early in the morning, with participants running from Island Grounds to the Lighthouse and back. College students, working professionals and homemakers took part in large numbers, underscoring support for the cause.
Inspector General of Police K. Bhavaneeswari flagged off the marathon and said the initiative aimed to promote awareness on cervical cancer prevention while highlighting women’s safety and the 1091 helpline. Personnel from the SSF also interacted with the public during the event.
Organisers emphasised the importance of early prevention through HPV vaccination, noting that an indigenously developed quadrivalent vaccine is available at an affordable cost and is recommended for girls aged nine and above.
Rotary representatives said efforts are under way to expand access to HPV vaccination through partnerships with healthcare institutions, including facilities in the city.
The marathon combined a message of fitness with a larger public health campaign, drawing attention to the need for increased awareness and preventive care among women.