GUJARAT, SURAT | 13th OCTOBER 2025: In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Surat Oncology Centre, South Gujarat’s largest provider of cancer care, organised a breast cancer awareness programme on Saturday. Held in the CME Hall of Universal Super Speciality Hospital, the event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and timely intervention in improving survival outcomes among women.
The programme was open to all women and included free thermography breast screening tests, each worth Rs. 5,000. It highlighted Surat Oncology Centre’s commitment to making cancer screening more accessible, especially for those who may otherwise face financial or social barriers to preventive healthcare.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ankit Patel, Medical Oncologist at Surat Oncology Centre, said, “Awareness and early diagnosis remain the most powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer. Advancements in treatments have vastly improved survival rates, the best outcomes are seen when the disease is detected early. Unfortunately, many women still delay screening due to fear, myths, or lack of awareness. Through this programme and other initiatives, we hope to change that mindset and encourage women to prioritise their health.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. It is also one of the most common forms of cancer in women in India, with more than 2 lakh cases diagnosed each year. An estimated 70,000 breast cancer patients die in India annually, largely due to late-stage diagnosis, which significantly reduces survival rates. The camp aimed to address barriers that prevent women from seeking necessary screenings for breast cancer.
Dr. Tanveer Maksud, Senior Medical Oncologist at Surat Oncology Centre, emphasised the role of accurate diagnosis and modern treatment options, saying, “There is still a great deal of misconception surrounding breast cancer testing and treatment. A biopsy, for instance, does not spread cancer, but helps us determine the right course of therapy. With advancements such as targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy, we can now offer safer and more effective treatment options that improve quality of life, even for advanced-stage patients.”
The event saw active participation from women of all age groups and facilitated open discussions on topics such as breast health, self-examination, and preventive lifestyle changes.
Dr. Jay Mehta, Medical Oncologist at Surat Oncology Centre, spoke about the importance of regular screenings, especially for women above 40 or those with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and how early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Surat Oncology Centre continues to lead cancer care in South Gujarat through its network of comprehensive cancer centres, offering world-class treatment, diagnostics, and awareness initiatives. Programmes such as these reaffirm the Centre’s mission to empower women with knowledge, accessibility, and care in the ongoing fight against breast cancer.
Each year, October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time to create awareness, honour the millions of lives affected by breast cancer, and reaffirm the global commitment to equitable access to care and improved survival for all.
