Category health

Dr. Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director and Chief of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, Nashik

In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in the number of young people being diagnosed with bowel cancer. While this form of cancer has traditionally been more common among older adults, younger individuals are now increasingly being affected. This shift in the age group of those diagnosed has raised important questions about the underlying causes of this troubling trend.

Understanding Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, refers to cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It usually starts as small growths called polyps, which can become cancerous over time. The risk factors for bowel cancer are well-established and include age, family history, a poor diet, lack of physical activity, and smoking. However, the increase in cases among younger individuals suggests that there are additional factors at play that were not previously as prominent.

• Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyles: Rising obesity rates and lack of physical activity are key factors in the development of bowel cancer.
• Increased Use of Antibiotics and Disruption of Gut Microbiota: Overuse of antibiotics disrupts the gut microbiome, promoting inflammation and cancer risk.
• Environmental Toxins and Pollution: Exposure to pollutants and chemicals increases inflammation and the risk of bowel cancer.
• Delayed Diagnosis and Awareness: Dismissing early symptoms and lack of awareness leads to delayed diagnosis and more difficult treatment.

Is Bowel Cancer Hereditary?

While lifestyle and environmental factors are significant, genetics also play a crucial role in the development of bowel cancer—especially in younger individuals. A family history of bowel cancer significantly increases one’s risk, and in some cases, the condition is inherited through specific genetic syndromes.

One of the most well-known hereditary conditions linked to bowel cancer is Lynch syndrome (also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer or HNPCC). Lynch syndrome is caused by mutations in genes that normally help repair DNA. When these genes don’t function properly, errors in the DNA can accumulate, leading to cancer.

Individuals with Lynch syndrome are at a much higher risk of developing bowel cancer, often before the age of 50, and may also be prone to other cancers such as endometrial, ovarian, stomach, and urinary tract cancers. Genetic testing and counseling are recommended for individuals with a strong family history of these cancers, and early and regular screening is crucial for those who carry Lynch syndrome mutations.

Recognizing the hereditary nature of some cases of bowel cancer can lead to earlier detection and preventive strategies, potentially saving lives.

What Can Be Done to Address This Trend?

• Promote Healthy Eating Habits
  Encouraging a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce the risk of bowel cancer. Reducing the consumption of processed foods, red meats, and sugary drinks is also essential for maintaining long-term digestive health.
• Encourage Regular Physical Activity
  A sedentary lifestyle is a major risk factor. Promoting daily physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or yoga, can help maintain a healthy weight, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of cancer.
• Raise Awareness About Early Symptoms
  Educating young people about the early signs of bowel cancer, such as changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool, can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
• Screening and Early Detection
  Promoting regular screenings for high-risk individuals and ensuring easy access to early detection services can help identify bowel cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. Individuals with a family history of bowel or related cancers should consider genetic counseling and more frequent screening.

What Are the Treatment Options Available?

• Surgery: Involves removing the cancerous tissue or part of the colon/rectum, often providing a cure in early-stage cancers.
• Robotic Surgery: A game changer in the field, robotic-assisted surgery allows for greater precision, smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and faster recovery times. This advanced technology is especially beneficial for complex colorectal procedures and is becoming an increasingly preferred option for both patients and surgeons.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells, typically after surgery or when surgery isn’t possible.
• Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells with high-energy radiation, commonly used for rectal cancer or when surgery isn’t an option.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on blocking specific molecules that promote cancer cell growth, causing fewer side effects than chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer, especially for advanced or recurrent bowel cancers.
• Clinical Trials: Provides access to experimental treatments that are still being studied for effectiveness.
• Palliative Care: Aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with advanced, untreatable cancer.

The rise in bowel cancer cases among younger people is a concerning trend that requires attention and action. While the exact causes are complex, a combination of lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, and inherited genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome appear to be contributing to this increase. By promoting healthier habits, improving awareness, encouraging early detection, and adopting advanced treatments like robotic surgery, we can work toward reducing the burden of this disease on future generations.

By – Dr Pinaki De, Consultant Physician, ILS Hospitals, Dumdum

A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, often accompanied by high humidity, which can have serious health implications. The most common and least severe health issue related to extreme heat is heat rash or prickly heat. However, prolonged exposure can lead to more serious conditions, progressing from heat cramps to heat exhaustion, and ultimately to heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.

Heat cramps are painful muscle cramps caused by the loss of water and electrolytes due to excessive sweating. They can be managed by resting in a shaded or cool area and consuming adequate Oral Re-hydration Solution (ORS) or electrolyte-rich fluids. Heat exhaustion occurs after prolonged exposure to high temperatures and excessive sweating, leading to weakness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. Managing heat exhaustion involves moving to a cool area, loosening clothing, and re-hydrating with ORS or other fluids.

The most severe and life-threatening heat-related illness is heat stroke, which occurs when the body’s internal temperature regulation system fails. The victim may present with a high body temperature (above 103°F), confusion, convulsions, or even unconsciousness. Immediate cooling is crucial, and the person should be transported to a medical facility without delay. Delayed intervention can result in mortality, with more than half of the victims being at risk.

The human body dissipates heat through four primary mechanisms: conduction, convection, evaporation, and radiation. Conduction involves heat transfer through direct contact, while convection allows heat loss through moving air or water. Evaporation, the most critical cooling mechanism, involves sweating and its subsequent evaporation from the skin. Radiation allows heat to be emitted from the body into the surrounding environment. When the environmental temperature exceeds normal body temperature (35°C), these mechanisms become less effective. Additionally, evaporation, the most important cooling method, fails when humidity exceeds 75%, making it difficult for the body to cool down efficiently.

When the body temperature surpasses 40°C (104°F), acute damage occurs in multiple organ systems, including the nervous system, lungs, heart, kidneys, and liver. Blood coagulation disorders may also develop. A single episode of heat-related injury can result in long-term or even permanent neurological damage.

Early intervention is critical in managing heat-related illnesses. Recognizing symptoms early and taking immediate action can prevent severe complications. Cooling strategies such as cold water application, preferably with ice water, are essential, though applying ice to specific areas like the axilla and groin is not necessarily more effective. Hydration plays a key role in prevention, with ORS, water, or electrolyte solutions helping maintain adequate hydration levels. Environmental modifications such as the use of fans, cool showers, and air conditioning can help reduce heat stress. Protective measures like wearing light, loose-fitting clothing and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours can further prevent heat-related illnesses.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be classified into two types: classic heat stroke and exertional heat stroke. Classic heat stroke occurs due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, commonly affecting the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Exertional heat stroke results from intense physical activity in hot conditions, often seen in athletes, laborers, and military personnel. Regardless of the type, heat stroke requires immediate cooling and rapid transportation to a healthcare facility. Without prompt treatment, heat stroke can lead to irreversible damage or death.

A heat wave is not just a discomfort—it is a significant health hazard. Understanding the progression of heat-related illnesses and taking appropriate preventive measures can save lives. Public awareness and timely intervention are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme heat conditions.

Mumbai – World Asthma Day, a major global health event, will be observed on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Held annually on the first Tuesday of May, the day aims to raise awareness about asthma, improve care, and reduce the global health burden of this chronic respiratory disease. This year’s theme, “Asthma Education Empowers,” emphasizes the life-changing impact of informed, proactive asthma management. Asthma remains a major public health issue in India, affecting an estimated 35 million people. Characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways, asthma leads to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Giving more information on this Dr. Sanggita Checker Consultant Pulmonologist from Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road explained, “Despite being a manageable condition with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, asthma continues to severely impact the daily lives of millions across the country. In more serious cases, poorly managed asthma can lead to emergency hospitalizations and even fatalities. We recommend the need for increased awareness, early diagnosis, and access to affordable medication. Environmental triggers such as air pollution, dust, and seasonal changes are known to exacerbate symptoms, particularly in urban centers. India urgently needs a coordinated effort to improve asthma care, from community awareness to medical infrastructure.”

Dr. Sanggita Checker further added, as asthma cases continue to rise, public health initiatives focused on education, prevention, and access to care are critical to improving outcomes and reducing the burden of this chronic respiratory disease.

Asthma is a long-term inflammatory disease of the airways that affects people of all ages, though it often begins in childhood. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 300 million people globally live with asthma, and the number continues to rise. While asthma is both treatable and manageable, many patients still suffer due to lack of awareness, underdiagnosis, environmental triggers, and inconsistent access to healthcare.

In India, several myths surround inhaled treatments for asthma, leading to misconceptions about their safety and effectiveness. These myths include the idea that inhalers are addictive, dangerous, or should only be used in severe cases. Some also believe inhalers can stunt growth or affect intelligence in children. These misconceptions can lead to suboptimal use of inhalers, impacting asthma management and patient outcomes. World Asthma Day shines a spotlight on these challenges and calls for concrete actions to improve asthma outcomes at every level—from local clinics to global health policy.In celebration of World Asthma Day 2025, the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) has chosen the theme “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL”. GINA emphasizes the need to ensure that people with asthma can access inhaled medications that are essential both for controlling the underlying disease and treating attacks.

New Delhi, May 03,2025 : One of the rarest of the rare cases of a foreign body ingestion came to Dr. Shubham Vatsya. A 77 year old man accidently ingested a key with a full keychain, probably due to dementia. The observation was difficulty in swallowing food and even water, and even finding hard to breathe. A swift X-ray by the attending general physician revealed a metallic foreign object lodged in the upper esophagus — shockingly, it was a key attached to a full keychain.

The patient was immediately referred to Dr. Shubham Vatsya, a renowned gastroenterologist, who acted without delay. An emergency endoscopy was performed, and the object was safely removed in under a minute.

“Such cases in elderly patients with cognitive decline are extremely rare, and the risks can escalate very quickly,” said Dr. Shubham. “Fortunately, the quick diagnosis and immediate referral made all the difference.” He further adds that solving such a case only becomes possible with expertise of the gastroenterologist to perform endoscopic foreign body removal. This case was solved in less than one minute by the specialised gastroenterologist with assistance of expert endoscopy technicians.

Within just 15 minutes of the procedure, the patient’s swallowing and breathing returned to normal. The case highlights the critical importance of early intervention and the role of multidisciplinary collaboration between general physicians and specialists.

This entire incident is a demonder that though uncommon observation, ingestion of a foreign body in the elderly can be fatal and rapid response is crucial.

As India prepares for the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) COP11, concerns over foreign influence in health policymaking are gaining prominence. Growing apprehension surrounds the FCTC process, which many believe is increasingly shaped not by science but by a few powerful international NGOs, often backed by private philanthropic funding. While India has consistently asserted its right to localize global frameworks across sectors, the issue becomes particularly stark in the case of tobacco regulation. India faces one of the most severe tobacco burdens globally, with over 300 million users and more than 1.35 million annual deaths attributable to tobacco-related illness. The urgency to act is clear — but so is the need for regulation that reflects Indian consumption patterns, socio-economic realities, and public health infrastructure.

Commenting on the issue, Jeffrey Smith, Resident Senior Fellow at Integrated Harm Reduction, stated, “The only known fact is that the existing tobacco policies fall far short of meeting the goal of cessation. Without novel policies that provide options for those who use tobacco products to switch, it is unlikely that India will reduce the health consequences of tobacco use at the population level.”

Instead, global policy frameworks have often pushed for blanket prohibitionist measures — including on emerging alternatives that help fight the ill effects of smoking or chewing tobacco— while failing to adequately address the more harmful forms of tobacco, such as bidis and smokeless tobacco. The result is a regulatory approach that appears inconsistent with risk profiles and ground realities. Around the world, countries are re-evaluating such frameworks. Sweden, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the UAE, among others, are exploring more flexible regulatory models — focused on mitigating harm through innovation, consumer awareness, and better enforcement. 

Dr Raghav Kesri, Senior Consultant and Head of Department, Medical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida

Cancer is no longer a disease confined to older adults. In recent years, India has seen a concerning rise in cancer cases among individuals under the age of 40. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), cancers among the youth, particularly breast, colorectal, blood, and thyroid cancers have seen a significant spike, especially in urban areas like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. This shift in demographics is a wake-up call for early detection, timely intervention, and lifestyle awareness.

Young Adults and Unexpected Cancer Diagnoses

Traditionally, cancer screening programs and public awareness campaigns have focused on middle-aged and older adults. However, doctors across India are now reporting more cases in younger individuals who often present with aggressive forms of the disease. Breast cancer is being diagnosed in women in their 20s and 30s, while young men are increasingly facing colorectal and testicular cancers. Unlike older adults, the disease in younger patients often progresses faster and can go undetected longer due to lack of screening.

Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, increased exposure to environmental toxins, obesity, smoking, and delayed medical checkups are contributing to this surge. Additionally, hereditary factors and genetic mutations play a more prominent role, especially in families with a history of cancer.

Why Awareness and Timely Action Matter

One of the biggest challenges in treating cancer among the youth is the delay in diagnosis. Many young people dismiss early warning signs like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, changes in bowel habits, or lumps, assuming they are too young to have cancer. This leads to late-stage detection, when treatment becomes more complex and outcomes less favorable.

Awareness campaigns must now evolve to speak directly to young adults, stressing the importance of not ignoring symptoms and undergoing regular health checkups, especially in high-risk groups.

Rethinking Prevention and Screening

While national cancer screening programs are being expanded, there is an urgent need to tailor these initiatives for younger populations. High-risk individuals, those with family history, lifestyle risks, or early symptoms should be prioritized for screening and early evaluation.

Hospitals and cancer care centers across India are beginning to introduce more youth-focused outreach and genetic counseling, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, where young-onset cancer incidence is rising rapidly.

The rise of cancer among young Indians is not just a medical concern, it is a social and generational issue. Early detection, timely intervention, and greater awareness can significantly improve outcomes. As India grapples with this evolving challenge, it’s essential to educate, empower, and equip younger generations with the tools to act early. Detection at the right time can save lives, even in the prime of youth.

Mumbai, India; April 30, 2025 – On the occasion of World Immunization Week, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. (BSE: 500124, NSE: DRREDDY, NYSE: RDY, NSEIFSC: DRREDDY; hereafter referred to as “Dr. Reddy’s”), a global pharmaceutical company, expands its strategic partnership with Sanofi Healthcare India Private Limited (“SHIPL”) to introduce a novel drug, Beyfortus® (nirsevimab), in India. Beyfortus® contains the monoclonal antibody, nirsevimab, in a prefilled injection used for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season. It is also administered in children up to 24 months of age, who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. 

Under the arrangement, Dr. Reddy’s will have exclusive rights from SHIPL to promote and distribute Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) in India. This announcement follows Dr. Reddy’s successful exclusive distribution partnership with Sanofi for their portfolio of vaccines in India last year. Dr. Reddy’s is expected to launch Beyfortus® in India in the second quarter of the current fiscal year. 

RSV is a highly contagious virus that can lead to serious respiratory illness for infants. Two out of three infants are infected with RSV during their first year of life and almost all children are infected by their second birthday. In addition to being the most common cause of LRTD such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants, RSV is also a leading cause of hospitalization in infants worldwide, with most hospitalizations occurring in healthy infants born at term. In 2019, there were approximately 33 million cases of acute lower respiratory infections globally, leading to more than 3 million hospitalizations, and it was estimated that there were 26,300 in-hospital deaths of children younger than 5 years.

Nitya Padmanabhan, Head of Sanofi Vaccines (India) said, “Bringing Beyfortus® to India is a pivotal step in our mission to protect every child from immunization preventable diseases like RSV. In India, where the disease burden is significant and early protection is critical, this collaboration with Dr. Reddy’s enables us to reach parents and healthcare providers with an innovative solution. Together, we are advancing equitable access to immunization and improving preventive care for numerous children in India.”

M.V. Ramana, Chief Executive Officer, Branded Markets (India and Emerging Markets), Dr. Reddy’s, said, “We are happy to extend our partnership with Sanofi in India – this time for a novel drug to address the RSV burden among newborns and infants in India. This partnership highlights our continued efforts to become the ‘partner of choice’ in bringing novel, innovative and trusted drugs to patients. Beyfortus® enables the access of healthcare professionals and parents to an improved drug in the prevention of RSV. Additionally, the launch of Beyfortus® will help us strengthen our immunization portfolio in India.”

Beyfortus® has been approved for use in the European Union, the U.S., China, Japan, and many other countries around the world. In India, Beyfortus® received its marketing authorization approval in June last year from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

If there’s one thing Amit Gandhi has learned over two decades in healthcare—it’s that real transformation isn’t just driven by systems, technology, or capital. It’s driven by people. By leaders who step up in the face of complexity and uncertainty and choose to make a difference. That belief has now taken the shape of a new podcast: The Healthcare Tribe.

Launched by Amit, a healthcare industry expert and the founder of The Insight Tribe (www.theinsighttribe.com), the podcast is a space for thoughtful, real conversations with the people shaping the future of healthcare. These are leaders you may have read about or worked with—executives, clinicians, entrepreneurs, investors—but this time, you’ll hear their stories.

The turning points. The setbacks. The decisions that defined them. “Healthcare is one of the most complex sectors to build in. Everyone talks about innovation and disruption—but what about the people behind it all? What really drives them? That’s the question I wanted to explore,” says Amit.

Each episode dives deep into the personal and professional journeys of these changemakers—what shaped them, what they’ve learned, and what they believe it truly takes to lead in healthcare today. But it doesn’t stop there. The podcast also offers a window into the current landscape of each speaker’s domain, unpacking trends, challenges, and insights that

are relevant to anyone working in or around healthcare.

The idea is simple: to inspire and empower healthcare professionals by sharing leadership journeys that matter. And to build a community that believes leadership—more than anything else—is what will define the future of healthcare.

The Healthcare Tribe with Amit Gandhi is now streaming on Youtube and Spotify. Because behind every healthcare breakthrough, there’s a leader with a story worth sharing.

MUMBAI / April 29, 2025: Honourable Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan today inaugurated the newly revamped Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital in Wadala, Mumbai. A unit of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, the revamped 9,000 sq. ft. facility marks a major step forward in the group’s mission to offer advanced and accessible eye care across Maharashtra.

From Left to Right – Hon’ble Maharashtra Governor Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan and Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital

The hospital has been transformed into a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with a modular operating theatre, a world-class laser refractive operation theatre, a modern optical retail and diagnostic display unit, and a fully stocked in-house pharmacy. Designed to deliver a seamless and all-inclusive eye care experience, the centre now offers a comprehensive range of ophthalmic services under one roof, including advanced treatments in Cataract, Retina, Cornea, LASIK, Glaucoma, Uveitis, Squint, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, and Oculoplasty.

The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge ophthalmic technology to support high-precision diagnosis and treatment. Key systems include the Alcon Constellation surgical unit and the 3D ARTEVO microscope for advanced retinal and cataract procedures, the WAVE LIGHT EX500 for high-speed LASIK, and laser platforms such as the ZEISS Green Laser and YAG Laser for retinal and posterior capsulotomy treatments. Diagnostic and imaging capabilities are powered by the NIDEK Mirante, ZEISS OCT 5000, Pentacam, ZEISS IOL Master, and B-scan, while clinical examinations are enhanced with tools like the indirect ophthalmoscope and applanation tonometer—ensuring comprehensive, world-class eye care under one roof.

Hon’ble Maharashtra Governor Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, who graced the occasion as Chief Guest, said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the transformation of Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, a unit of Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, into a premier centre of excellence as part of the Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital network. This state-of-the-art facility exemplifies how cutting-edge medical innovation, when guided by a patient-first philosophy, can significantly raise the bar for healthcare delivery. I commend the entire team for their steadfast commitment to enhancing vision care across Maharashtra and for ensuring that world-class eye treatment is within reach for every citizen.”

Dr. Adil Agarwal, CEO, Dr Agarwals Group of Eye Hospital, said:” At Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, our journey in recent years has been marked by remarkable growth—not just in numbers, but in the depth and quality of care we provide. With a network of over 230 hospitals across India and abroad, including 30 hospitals in Maharashtra alone, our commitment to this state remains unwavering. This newly revamped hospital stands as a testament to our pursuit of clinical excellence, where advanced technology meets compassionate, patient-centric care—delivered by a team of highly skilled and dedicated specialists.

Prof. Dr. S. Natarajan, Medical Director of Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, said: “This transformation marks a major milestone in our mission to offer world-class eye care. It strengthens our ability to reach more patients, train the next generation of ophthalmology leaders, and continue our legacy as a trusted name in eye health. I am deeply thankful to our team, partners, and supporters who made this possible.”

Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital currently operates over 230 hospitals across 10 countries, including 18 in Mumbai and 30 across Maharashtra. The group serves more than 2 million patients annually and performs over 200,000 surgeries globally. Moving forward, it remains committed to expanding its presence by adding more facilities in both Maharashtra and Mumbai to further enhance access to quality eye care.

As part of its ongoing efforts to promote eye health, the hospital is offering free eye check-ups for senior citizens aged 50 and above, available until May 31.

Davangere, April 28, 2025 — Grace Cancer Foundation, a Hyderabad-based non-profit organisation committed to alleviating the burden of cancer through education, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and research, in collaboration with Maximus India, a Bangalore-based diversified organisation, launched a major initiative aimed at eradicating cancer.

The effort was marked by a free HPV vaccination and cancer screening camp held at Mayur Global School, Davangere, Karnataka.

At the camp, 350 HPV vaccinations were administered and 200 cancer screenings conducted. The HPV vaccine plays a pivotal role in eradicating or significantly reducing HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer. By preventing infections caused by specific HPV types, the vaccine can avert a large proportion of these cancers.

The program underscored the critical importance of collective action in fighting cancer, with influential voices calling for greater community involvement. This collaborative effort between Grace Cancer Foundation and Maximus India stands as a testament to their shared commitment to public health and cancer prevention. The initiative not only raised awareness but also actively engaged the community in safeguarding their health.

In a press note issued today from Hyderabad, Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Founder of Grace Cancer Foundation, Senior Robotic Surgical Oncologist, and Clinical Director at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, made a heartfelt appeal to the public: “Let’s come together to ensure every girl child gets vaccinated,” mphasising the critical role of vaccination in preventing cervical cancer.

P.N. Lokesh, Deputy Commissioner of Davangere, Government of Karnataka, highlighted the vital role of community participation in the success of health campaigns.

Ms. Praveena Bhimavarapu, Senior Vice President and Country Head of Maximus India, stressed the importance of early intervention: “Early intervention is key in the fight against cancer,” noting that timely vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women globally.

The initiative marks an important step towards the vision of a cancer-free nation, and the collaboration between Grace Cancer Foundation and Maximus India serv.es as a model for future health initiatives.