The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a groundbreaking initiative to combat the growing rates of cancer in Mumbai. The ‘Mumbai Integrated Cancer Prevention Programme’ was unveiled on World Cancer Day, February 4, with the aim of accelerating awareness and screening efforts throughout the city. This campaign, spearheaded by Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani and supported by actor Sonali Kulkarni, signifies a significant step towards early detection, screening, and treatment options for Mumbaikars.
A Unified Effort for Health and Well-being
At a recent event attended by health officials and representatives from various healthcare organizations, the BMC’s commitment to the health and well-being of every citizen was reiterated by Gagrani. He emphasized the importance of providing access to healthcare at the grassroots level and utilizing diverse mediums to raise awareness. Dr. Sudeep Gupta, Director of Tata Memorial Hospital, also voiced his institution’s dedication to offering quality cancer care in collaboration with the BMC. This unified effort between the civic body and a renowned healthcare institution highlights the seriousness of the cancer prevention programme.
Empathy and Support in the Fight Against Cancer
During the event, Sonali Kulkarni shared poignant insights into the emotional toll that cancer takes on patients and their families. She stressed the importance of raising awareness and extending support to those battling the disease. Kulkarni highlighted the critical role of Asha (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers in health awareness efforts, underscoring their significance in the fight against cancer. This humanizing touch adds a layer of empathy and understanding to the campaign, resonating with individuals who have been impacted by cancer.
The ‘Mumbai Comprehensive Cancer Care Programme’ will focus on early screening, diagnosis, and treatment for cancer, targeting the entire population of Mumbai. By offering referral services for cancer-related needs and collaborating with private hospitals, NGOs, and other groups, the programme aims to expand its reach and impact. To ensure the success of this initiative, the Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) has directed the Public Health Department to implement the programme effectively, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in cancer prevention.
The BMC’s campaign aligns with the Government of Maharashtra’s directives and the National Programme for the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), showcasing a concerted effort to raise awareness and promote regular screenings. By organizing screening camps for cervical and breast cancer at municipal hospitals, the civic body is taking proactive steps to address the prevalent types of cancer in the region. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to public health and well-being in Mumbai.
As the campaign gains momentum, over 1,000 health department staff and 4,000 ASHA and community health workers will play pivotal roles in engaging citizens, facilitating screenings, and providing essential support to cancer patients and their families. With a focus on women aged 30 and above, the initiative encourages self-breast examinations and regular check-ups, emphasizing the importance of early detection and proactive health measures. Additionally, tobacco cessation clinics will be established in the coming months to complement the outreach efforts of the campaign.
In light of the World Health Organization’s data revealing the significant burden of cancer in India, with breast, cervical, and prostate cancers being the most prevalent, the BMC’s initiative to promote a healthy lifestyle is crucial. By encouraging regular cancer screenings, a nutritious diet, avoidance of tobacco and alcohol, protection from environmental pollution, maintenance of personal hygiene, and physical activity, the campaign aims to empower residents to take proactive steps towards their health and well-being.
This comprehensive approach to cancer prevention and awareness underscores the BMC’s commitment to public health and underscores the significance of collaborative efforts in combating one of the leading causes of mortality in the region. As the ‘Mumbai Integrated Cancer Prevention Programme’ gains traction, it stands as a beacon of hope and support for individuals impacted by cancer, offering a unified front in the fight against this devastating disease.
