Mangaluru : The Boloor Savithri Vasudeva Rao Charitable Trust (R) and the Thaluku Mahila Mandaligala Okkoota (R) organized a successful cancer awareness and screening camp at the Thaluku Mahila Mandaligala Okkoota Hall in Urvastore, Mangalore on Saturday.

The event featured an insightful talk by Dr. Venkataramana Kini from M.I.O. Cancer Specialty Hospital, who addressed early cancer symptoms, causes, and prevention. Dr. Kini highlighted the rising risks of cancer due to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as the consumption of junk food and a sedentary lifestyle—trends often adopted from Western cultures. He emphasized the importance of early detection, noting that cancer risk increases with age and can also be
influenced by genetic factors.

A significant part of Dr. Kini’s discussion was devoted to the social stigma surrounding cancer and cancer patients, which remains a major concern. He pointed out that myths and misconceptions about cancer often lead to fear and avoidance of discussions on the topic. Dr. Kini urged society to break these taboos and become more proactive in talking about cancer prevention and early detection, rather than shying away from the subject.

Participants benefited from on-site screening services, taking an important step toward safeguarding their health. The trust also donated a health fund for the needs of two eligible individuals, supporting their ongoing healthcare requirements.

The program was warmly welcomed by Smt. Savithri Vasudeva Rao, the founding president of the Boloor Savithri Vasudeva Rao Charitable Trust (R). Speeches by Mr. Balakrishna H

(Trustee) and leaders from the Mahila Okkoota, including Smt. Chanchala Thejomaya and Smt. Usha Nayak, underscored the importance of community involvement in cancer prevention. Trustee Smt. Jestalakshmi served as the MC, while the secretary of Mahila Okkoota, Smt. Rekha Shetty expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the event’s success.