The World Cancer Day was today observed at the District Headquarters Budgam with a series of awareness and medical education activities aimed at promoting cancer prevention, early detection, and patient-centered care. The programme was organised by the District Administration Budgam in collaboration with the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Budgam and the Oncology Department of Paras Hospital Srinagar.
The event was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat. Besides, CMO Budgam, DIO Budgam, NT Headquarters, the programme witnessed participation from senior district officers, health officials, doctors, paramedical staff, and other stakeholders.
Speaking on the occasion, The DC highlighted the growing burden of cancer and stressed the critical importance of awareness, timely screening, and early diagnosis in improving survival outcomes. He emphasised that community-level sensitisation, strengthening of primary healthcare systems, and ensuring timely referrals are essential to combat cancer effectively.
The DC underscored the role of preventive healthcare, lifestyle modifications, and regular health check-ups in reducing cancer risk. He also drew attention to environmental factors contributing to rising health concerns and spoke about the hazardous effects of pollution, particularly emissions from brick kilns, on public health.
The DC stated that prolonged exposure to polluted air and industrial emissions can aggravate respiratory ailments and increase the risk of serious diseases, including cancer. He stressed the need for strict monitoring of polluting units, adherence to environmental norms, and collective efforts to reduce air pollution in order to safeguard public health.
The DC further called for greater inter-departmental coordination to address environmental health challenges in a comprehensive manner. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the District Administration to support health initiatives, enhance coordination among departments, and ensure better access to specialised oncology services for the people of Budgam.
The DC called upon health professionals, frontline workers, and community stakeholders to work collectively towards creating a cancer-aware society and improving healthcare delivery at the grassroots level. On the occasion, Specialist in Oncology, Dr. Shabnam Bashir from Paras Hospital Srinagar delivered a detailed guest lecture focusing on cancer awareness and management.
She spoke extensively about common cancers, particularly breast cancer and colorectal cancer, highlighting early warning signs, screening protocols, and the importance of timely medical consultation. Dr. Bashir also emphasized advances in cancer treatment and the need for patient-centric care to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients.
The participants lauded the efforts of the District Administration and appreciated the initiative aimed at strengthening cancer awareness and medical education in the district.