Patna: AIIMS Patna observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a “Pink Walk” organised by the Department of Radiation Oncology on Wednesday. The awareness event began at the institute’s Admin Block and concluded at the OPD Foyer, drawing active participation from doctors, residents, nurses and students.
The programme commenced with the release of pink balloons symbolising hope and solidarity. The rally was led by Executive Director (Brig.) Dr Raju Agarwal, Medical Superintendent Dr Anup Kumar, Dean of Academics Dr Poonam Bhadani, and Head of Radiation Oncology Dr Pritanjali Singh. Other faculty members including Dr Nilesh Mani, Dr Harikesh Bahadur Singh, Dr Minakshi Mishra, Dr Upasna (Radiology), Dr Veena (Plastic Surgery), and Dr Azhar (Surgical Oncology) also contributed insights on the importance of awareness and timely intervention.
Street play and public interaction
A nukkad natak (street play) performed by BSc Nursing students in the OPD Foyer highlighted the benefits of early detection, regular screening and self-examination in reducing breast cancer mortality.
Addressing the participants, Brig. Dr Raju Agarwal urged women to adopt healthier lifestyles and undergo regular check-ups. He emphasised that awareness can play a crucial role in saving lives through early diagnosis.
Rising burden of breast cancer
Dr Pritanjali Singh noted that breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women globally. According to GLOBOCAN 2022, there were 22.96 lakh cases worldwide and 1.92 lakh cases in India. “Every four minutes, a new breast cancer patient is diagnosed, and every eight minutes one dies — deaths that can largely be prevented through early detection, aggressive screening, and public awareness,” she said.
