Experts at women’s oncology meet

‘Symposium on Women’s Oncology’ was organised by Apollo Hospitals and National Cancer Institute (NCI) of USA. Dr Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals said, “Over 600,000 people succumb to cancer every year in India and more than half of them are in the age group of 30-70 years. 

This symposium will provide opportunities for oncologists to interact with one another and exchange latest updates on cancer prevention and treatment, which is crucial for patient care.” 

Addressing the gathering, Dr V Shanta, Chairperson - Cancer Institute WIA, Chennai, said that the lifetime cumulative risk of women aged between 0 and 75 years acquiring cancer in urban India is 1 in 7-10, whereas in developed countries it is 1 in 3-4.

“Nearly 60% of patients seek treatment in advanced stages leading to increased mortality and poorer survival. Increasing thrust on preventive measures with early detection, cancer education and increasing awareness will reduce the number of cancer incidences,” she added. 

Dr C Prathap Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group, Dr J Radhakrishnan, Health Secretary, Tamil Nadu and Dr Edward Trimble, Director, Centre for Global Health. A host of successful women shared their experience about wellness and stress for women. 

The panel discussion titled ‘Marga’ included renowned vocalist Sudha Raghunathan, Bharatanatyam danseuse Alarmel Valli, Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Sheela Nambiar, Alternate Medicine Therapeutic Yoga specialist and co-founder of Krshn Yoga Studios and Krshn yoga Clinic Dr Farzana Siraj, Maduvanti Arun, Edutainer, and  Aruna Subramaniam of Bhoomika Trust. 

While the panellists discussed mental wellness and stress, they unanimously agreed that it was important for every woman, working woman or homemaker, to allot ‘me’ time.