A series of events were organised by the Department of Biotechnology, CGC Landran, to mark World Cancer Day, 2024. Aimed at spreading awareness about the prevention and treatment of cancer, they also sought to highlight the importance of regular medical check-ups and adoption of healthy lifestyles. The awareness activities commenced with a five kilometre Walkathon by 100-plus CGC students of Biotechnology, Microbiology and Pharmacy streams.
Organised in collaboration with IVY Hospital, Mohali, the World Cancer Day Walkathon was flagged off from the campus by Dr. P.N Hrisheekesha, Campus Director, CGC Landran. The rally concluded with an interactive session of the participants with doctors from the Oncology department of IVY Hospital. A Nukkad Natak performance by CGC students on the theme ‘Cancer Prevention - Close the Care Gap’ at Pracheen Kala Kendra, Mohali followed next.
Continuing the activity momentum, a free mammography camp in association with SGHS Hospital, Sohana, was also organised in CGC Campus. 30-plus female employees availed the free-of-cost testing for breast cancer. The department had also organised a series of internal level competitions for students which included quiz competitions, a fitness walk, and poster making contests.
The World Cancer Day activities concluded with a special talk session featuring experts in the field of cancer treatment & research including Dr. Sandeep Kukkar, Director-Oncology, SGHS Hospital, Sohana, Mohali and Dr. Piyush Mehta, consultant, Oncology, SGHS Hospital Sohana Mohali. Dr. Kukkar spoke on the theme of World Cancer Day and also shared his views on precision medicine, personalised medicine.
He highlighted the importance of regular medical test such as the PSA test for early detection of Prostate cancer and also threw light on Cervical Cancer Vaccine and its impact. The session culminated with a pledge by everyone present, to change their attitudes towards this disease and strive to push for quality cancer care as well as dignity, respect and support for cancer patients as well as their caregivers.