Srinagar, Oct 30: Promoting awareness about breast health and encouraging informed, supportive conversations, J&K Bank today organised a Breast Cancer Awareness Programme at its Corporate Headquarters. Held under the message “Know More, Fear Less, Act Early”, the programme brought together medical experts, cancer survivors and Bank employees to discuss breast health, early detection, the role of caregivers and compassionate support.
Executive Director Sudhir Gupta chaired the programme in the presence of Chief General Managers Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat, Ashutosh Sareen and Rajesh Malla Tikoo, General Managers, DGMs, medical experts and other senior officers and staff. Divisional and Zonal Offices across J&K and outside also joined the awareness program through VC.
Speaking on the occasion, Executive Director Sudhir Gupta said, “Behind every cancer diagnosis is a person whose concerns extend to her family, her work and the uncertainties ahead. Through this programme, we want to encourage conversations that women can engage in without hesitation or embarrassment.”
“Within the Bank, we must nurture a culture where our colleagues feel comfortable seeking support and giving their health the attention it deserves. The purpose of awareness is fulfilled when better understanding translates into timely action and greater care for one another,” he added.
In her opening remarks, General Manager Aneeta Nehru welcomed the guests saying, “Prioritizing our health is a necessity, and making time for screening and seeking medical advice promptly can make a crucial difference to treatment outcomes.”
While thanking the Bank’s leadership for conducting the awareness program, Renowned Surgical Oncologist Dr Shabnam Bashir provided a detailed overview of different types of cancer and underlined the importance of early diagnosis.
“Many cancers can be treated successfully when detected at an early stage. Yet around 60 per cent of the cases we receive are already at an advanced stage. We need to talk openly about cancer, recognize warning signs and seek medical advice promptly so that opportunities for early treatment are not lost,” she said. She also highlighted the contribution of tobacco use and unhealthy lifestyle choices to cancer risk.
Pain management, palliative care specialist, Dr Henana Berjes, speaking on the role of caregivers said, “Care must extend beyond managing physical pain to understanding the emotional distress that patients and their families experience. Breast cancer patients need us to stand by them with an extra measure of love, patience and compassion. Being present, listening to their concerns and offering practical help can make a meaningful difference to their experience of care.”
Regarding the nutritional needs of breast cancer patients, Onconutritionist Dr Umi Laila said, “Nutrition is an important part of supportive care during treatment and recovery. The emphasis should be on informed, balanced dietary choices suited to each patient’s needs and treatment requirements.”
Two cancer survivors shared their experiences, bringing a personal perspective to the programme. An interactive question-and-answer session provided participants with an opportunity to raise their concerns and seek guidance from the experts.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by General Manager Hafeeza Rahim, who expressed gratitude to the chairperson, senior management executives, medical experts, survivors and participants, while encouraging them to carry the message of awareness and care into their families and communities.
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