KMC Mangaluru Launches Major Cancer Awareness Initiative with Conclave and Community Walk
In a significant move to bolster cancer care and public awareness, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangaluru, along with KMC Hospital, Attavar, is spearheading a comprehensive two-day event this weekend. The initiative includes the KMC Cancer Conclave, an academic conference dedicated to gastrointestinal cancers, and the Mangalore Can-Walk, a community awareness walk aligned with World Cancer Day observances.
KMC Cancer Conclave: Fostering Multidisciplinary Excellence
The KMC Cancer Conclave is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the KMC Marena Sports and Indoor Complex in Attavar. This academic conference zeroes in on gastrointestinal cancers, aiming to bridge gaps in treatment and research through collaborative efforts. Dr B Unnikrishnan, dean of Kasturba Medical College, Mangaluru, highlighted the institution's unwavering commitment to advancing cancer care. "This conclave underscores our dedication to academic excellence and multidisciplinary collaboration," he stated during a media address.
Organised under the leadership of Dr MS Athiyamaan as the organising chairman, with Dr Dishitha Shetty and Dr Abhishek Krishna serving as organising secretaries, the event carries the theme 'Bridging Together Disciplines for Better Gastrointestinal Cancer Outcomes'. This theme emphasises the critical need for coordinated approaches involving various medical specialties to enhance patient outcomes and survival rates.
Mangalore Can-Walk: Community Engagement for Cancer Awareness
Coinciding with the conclave, KMC Hospital Attavar Oncology Centre is organising the Mangalore Can-Walk at 6 am on Sunday. Dr M Chakrapani, medical superintendent of KMC Hospital, Attavar, noted that this event is part of the annual World Cancer Day activities, observed on February 4. The walk is designed to foster community spirit and raise awareness about cancer prevention and support.
Expected to draw participation from approximately 1,300 individuals, the walk will include a diverse group of cancer survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals such as doctors and nurses, students, volunteers, and citizens from across Mangaluru. The route will commence from the Dr TMA Pai International Convention Centre, proceeding through PVS Junction, Navabharath Circle, City Centre, Hampankatta, and concluding at the KMC Lighthouse Road Campus.
Objectives and Impact of the Initiatives
The dual initiatives aim to achieve multiple goals in the fight against cancer:
- Promote Early Detection: Encouraging regular screenings and awareness of symptoms to catch cancers at treatable stages.
- Encourage Healthy Lifestyles: Advocating for diet, exercise, and habits that reduce cancer risk.
- Reduce Stigma: Addressing misconceptions and fostering a supportive environment for those affected by cancer.
- Foster Support Systems: Building networks for patients and families to share experiences and resources.
Dr Chakrapani emphasised that the walk serves as a platform to highlight the importance of compassion, community engagement, and collective responsibility. "By bringing together diverse participants, we aim to create a stronger, more informed community in the battle against cancer," he added.
This weekend's events in Mangaluru represent a holistic approach to cancer care, combining academic rigor with public outreach to drive meaningful change in gastrointestinal cancer management and overall cancer awareness.
