Chennai, Feb, 2023

February 4 is celebrated across the globe as World Cancer Day. The day is marked out to remember the progress being made in cancer research, to spread awareness on cancer care, to celebrate those who have fearlessly fought and survived the disease, to honour the memories of those who lost the battle, and to applaud the bravehearts fighting the disease even as we speak.

World Cancer Day was conceived in 2000 at the World Summit Against Cancer (Paris). It is an initiative by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). The idea is to encourage cancer research, spread awareness and advocate initiatives that unite the global community to reduce the global cancer burden. 

Says Dr. T.G. Govindarajan, Chairman & Managing Director, Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospitals, “By 2040, the global burden is expected to grow to 27.5 million new cancer cases and 16.3 million cancer deaths simply due to the growth and ageing of the population. The only way to fight the numbers is through early detection and screening. This marathon is a initiative to spread awareness in this direction”.

In keeping with the spirit of World Cancer Day, Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Hospital, Pallikaranai (Chennai) conducted a marathon on February 26 2023. The event was inaugurated by Mr. R Albin Raj, Inspector of Police – Law & Order, Pallikarnai Police Station in the presence of Dr. T.G. Govindarajan, Chairman & Managing Director – Dr. Kamakshi Memorial Group of Hospitals. 

Says Dr. T.G. Sivaranjani Director “The goal of the event was to spread awareness of cancer care and treatment among the general public. Close to 450 people participated in the marathon, including several senior doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, and others. It was definitely heartening to see the turnout for the marathon which was also supported by Decathlon with medals and certificates besides providing volunteers.