JAMMU, Oct 6: The Regional Ayurveda Research Institute (RARI), Jammu, under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, organised a breast cancer awareness programme at the Institute premises as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The programme aimed to sensitise the staff and interns about breast cancer, its risk factors, early warning signs, preventive measures, early detection and the importance of seeking timely medical care. Research Officers, Consultants, SRFs, JRFs, IPD staff, interns and other employees of the Institute participated in the programme and actively engaged in the awareness session and discussions.
Dr. Harbans Singh, Head of RARI Jammu, delivered an informative lecture on breast cancer, focusing on its risk factors, warning signs, prevention and management. He stressed that awareness and early detection play a crucial role in timely diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. He discussed several risk factors, including increasing age, family history, genetic predisposition, hormonal and reproductive factors, obesity, physical inactivity and unhealthy lifestyle practices.
Dr. Singh also explained common warning signs, including a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, skin changes, nipple retraction and unusual nipple discharge. He advised that any persistent or unusual change should not be ignored and should be evaluated promptly by a qualified healthcare professional. He further highlighted the importance of regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding tobacco and other harmful substances as important measures for overall health and disease prevention.
Dr. Poonam Mohod, Research Officer, RARI Jammu, sensitised participants about breast health and breast self-examination. She explained and demonstrated the basic steps involved in self-examination and encouraged women to become familiar with the normal appearance and feel of their breasts.
Dr. Mohod emphasised that any unusual lump, swelling, skin or nipple change or abnormal discharge requires appropriate medical evaluation and should not be self-diagnosed. She also highlighted the importance of timely screening and professional medical consultation, particularly for women at increased risk. She urged participants to overcome hesitation and social stigma surrounding breast-related health concerns and seek medical advice without delay when suspicious symptoms are noticed.
The speakers emphasised that breast cancer awareness should not remain limited to the month of October but should become part of regular health education and preventive healthcare practices. Participants were encouraged to share the information with their families and communities and promote awareness about early reporting and timely healthcare-seeking.
The programme concluded with the important message, “Early Detection Saves Lives.” The initiative reaffirmed the commitment of RARI Jammu and CCRAS towards promoting preventive healthcare, health education and public awareness, with emphasis on early detection, healthy living and timely medical intervention.