RCHRC conducts a cancer awareness camp at IIM Ranchi

On 22 July 2023, Ranchi Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (RCHRC), a unit of the Tata Cancer Care Foundation, successfully organised a cancer awareness camp at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ranchi. The primary objective of the event was to educate the youth about cancer and empower them to take proactive measures to prevent and detect the disease at an early stage. The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 70 students and faculty members.

Dr Madan Mohan Pandey, Director, Medical Services, at RCHRC, discussed the high burden of cancer in India and emphasised that one of the most crucial factors driving India’s high late detection and mortality rates is a lack of awareness about the signs and symptoms of the disease.

Dr Pandey also brought attention to the alarming cancer scenario in Jharkhand, where many residents face difficulties in accessing basic healthcare services. As a result, the state experiences a particularly high incidence rate of cancer, with oral, lung, and stomach cancers being more prevalent in men, and breast, cervix, and stomach cancers being more common among women.

Medical oncologist Dr Rajanigandha Tudu discussed the various risk factors associated with cancer, including unhealthy lifestyle choices, lack of awareness, tobacco consumption, and genetic predisposition. She encouraged the attendees to remain vigilant for the warning signs of cancer, as early detection significantly increases chances of survival.

Following the session, 40 of the participants were screened for cancer. Prof Deepak Kumar Srivastava, the Director of IIM Ranchi, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Tata Trusts for bringing comprehensive cancer care to the state of Jharkhand through RCHRC, and commended the team for their awareness and screening initiatives.

Through their Cancer Care Programme, the Tata Trusts have been diligently working towards providing affordable and high-quality cancer care to millions of Indians. RCHRC is an integral part of the Trusts’ distributed care model, which aims to make world-class cancer care facilities accessible to people across India.