Chennai, Feb. 2023

Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals, Pallikaranai conducted a Cyclothon to spread awareness about Cervical Cancer, early screening and timely vaccination on Jan 29, 2023. The Cyclothon which started at 6 am was flagged off by Mr. Anandakumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner – CCB. The Cyclothon commenced from the hospital to Pallavaram bridge and back covering a total of 16 kms. Dr. T.G. Govindarajan Chairman & Managing Director, Director Dr. Jayanthi, Director Dr. T.G. Sivaranjani and Advisor Dr. K.M. Radhakrishanan participated in this event. 

Dr. T.G. Govindarajan on start of the event said “Cervical cancer is a public health problem in developing countries like India, so much so that India alone accounts for one-quarter of the worldwide burden of cervical cancers. Cervical cancer accounts for 17% of all cancer deaths among women aged between 30 and 69 years. It is estimated that cervical cancer will occur in approximately 1 in 53 Indian women during their lifetime compared with 1 in 100 women in more developed regions of the world. Around 453 million Indian women aged 15 years and above are at risk of developing cancer. Current data indicates that cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among females in the country. Low age at marriage, early age at first intercourse, higher parity raises the risk of HPV acquisition among Indian women. Aligned to this year’s theme for Cervical Cancer ‘Get informed, get screened, get vaccinated’. We conduct regular awareness programs for Cervical cancer, promote Pap smear screening and HPV Vaccination in our institution”.

Dr. T.G. Shivaranjani who spoke on the occasion added “Although the burden of cervical cancer is increasing largely in the country, deaths can be prevented if it is screened at early stages. Screening for cancer is known to reduce mortality by early detection and treatment. Most cervical cancer cases are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). When diagnosed, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer, as long as it is detected early and managed effectively. Cancers diagnosed in late stages can also be controlled with appropriate treatment and palliative care. With a comprehensive approach to prevent, screen, and treat, we can end cervical cancer as a public health problem within a few generations. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that the HPV vaccine be given to girls and boys between ages 9 and 14 receive two doses of HPV vaccine at least six months apart. Research has shown that the two-dose schedule is effective for children under 15. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. It was a good opportunity for us to raise awareness about cervical cancer, screening and HPV vaccination”.