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DIMAPUR — A cancer awareness seminar-cum-free consultation was held at MGM Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, on Saturday.
The programme was organised by Mar Gregorius Orthodox Church, Dimapur, and St. Thomas Mission Society, Dimapur, for students and faculty members of MGM Higher Secondary School and MGM College, as well as parents, church members, and local residents, according to a press release.
The purpose of the programme was to raise cancer awareness among various target groups, particularly within the student community.
Free consultations with oncologists were arranged at the school following the seminar to facilitate early diagnosis of cancer, which is crucial for effective treatment.
The seminar was conducted by Dr. Aby K Babu, head and neck cancer surgeon at Faith Hospital Dimapur, and Dr. Vishala Varghese, radiation oncologist at the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research.
Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Giju George, parish priest of MGOS Church, Dimapur, outlined the purpose of organising the event. He stated that, of all the goals a person may pursue in life, health should be the primary focus. He emphasised that a healthy body is essential for a healthy mind.
According to him, the purpose of every human being is to develop and grow in all aspects of life and to assist others in achieving the same.
In the seminar, Babu spoke extensively about how tobacco consumption can lead to cancer. He explained to the gathering that tobacco users are at a higher risk of developing cancer.
Contrary to the public perception that tobacco consumption only leads to mouth, throat, and lung cancer, he explained that it can also result in colon cancer, cervical cancer, and more. He stated that studies have identified 72 measurable carcinogenic elements in tobacco.
He informed the students that all forms of tobacco are harmful to the body. Even passive or secondary smokers are at high risk of the adverse effects of tobacco.
Varghese spoke specifically about breast cancer. She explained to the audience who is at risk of developing breast cancer and emphasised that, as with all forms of cancer, early detection of malignant lumps in the breast is crucial for successful treatment.