SRINAGAR: On the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a webinar was organized by Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar on this year’s theme ‘RISE’ (Rally in Supporting, Serving and Screening Everyone).
The webinar was coordinated and conducted by Department of Community Medicine with departments of Surgical oncology, medical oncology and psychiatry Departments of Government Medical College Srinagar.
The webinar was inaugurated by Prof. Masood Tanvir, principal and dean, GMC Srinagar who, while discussing emerging trends of cancers globally, emphasized awareness and early detection so that it’s treated early.
Dr. S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Professor and HOD Community Medicine gave the keynote address and urged that breast cancer awareness shall reach colleges and University level girl students so that they are aware of breast self-examination and risks of breast cancer.
Dr Kouser Sideeq Lecturer, Community Medicine and organising secretary of the webinar gave an overall scenario of breast cancer within various communities and countries. She discussed preventive strategies, the role of diet and lifestyle, genetic counselling.
Dr. Shamima Wani, assistant professor and in-charge head, surgical oncology made an elaborate presentation on primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of breast cancer, self-examination and methods for early detection of breast cancer.
She talked about myths and facts about breast cancer and encouraged early detection through screening.
Dr. Mohammad Altaf Hakeem, in charge head, medical oncology talked about various social and lifestyle factors responsible for breast cancer. He made a power-point presentation on a case scenario in Kashmir with the youngest patient at 22 years and the eldest breast cancer case at 90 years. He discussed metastasis in breast cancer with special reference to association with pregnancy.
Dr. Sadaqat Rahman Drabu, Assistant Professor, a clinical psychologist at IMHANS-K, Department of Psychiatry GMC Srinagar deliberated on the role of psychotherapy and psychiatric counselling in breast cancer patients while emphasizing the bigger role of dignity conserving treatment and psychosocial support of breast cancer patients during their lifetime, especially during treatment.
The webinar was conducted under the aegis of J&K branches of the Indian association of preventive and social medicine (IAPSM) and the Indian public health association (IPHA).
