Cervical cancer, a deadly disease that claims a woman's life every 27 minutes worldwide, is preventable with regular screenings. This essential message was underscored by Dr. Keerthi Chadda, who emphasized the significance of yearly screenings for women between the ages of 25 and 65. Dr. Chadda's words carried weight as he addressed an audience in Pune, underscoring the vital role of screening in the prevention of cervical cancer.
In a commendable collaborative effort, the Sakal Social Foundation, Rotary Club of Pune Sahwas, One Network, and Metropolis Lab, have joined forces with the Sakal Media Group to launch the 'Durga Project.' This initiative aims to provide free cervical cancer screening to women aged 25 to 65. The screening camps will be held at various locations in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad city from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. until November 10.
Dr. Kirti Chadda, Chief Scientific Officer of Metropolis Lab highlighted the importance of early detection in combating cervical cancer. The launch of the initiative saw the presence of prominent figures, including Mahendra Pisal, Chief Operating Officer of Sakal Media Group, Sameer Kulkarni, Director of One Network, Sharad Haval, Business Head of Metropolis Lab, Kiran Ingle, Deputy Provincial of Rotary District 3131, and Pratibha Jagdale, President of Rotary Club of Pune Sahwas. Mahendra Pisal took the opportunity to shed light on the various social activities of the Sakal Social Foundation and Sakal Relief Fund.
Dr. Keerthi Chadda provided valuable insights into cervical cancer, explaining that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the root cause of this disease, often transmitted through sexual contact. However, not everyone infected with HPV develops cervical cancer; individuals with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk. There are approximately 25 different strains of the HPV virus.
Notably, vaccines are available in India to prevent HPV transmission, with two types currently in use. The first vaccine offers protection against two types of cancer-causing HPV, while the second primarily guards against four HPV strains. It is recommended that girls aged 9 to 15 receive the HPV vaccine before reaching puberty. However, those who have not received the vaccine can do so up to 25.
For those interested in availing themselves of the free cervical cancer screening camp, please note that the screening will be available from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm until November 10. To register and participate, individuals are encouraged to reach out via the contact numbers provided according to their respective locations.
The 'Durga Project' initiative serves as a vital step in the fight against cervical cancer, offering women the opportunity to protect their health and potentially save lives through early detection and prevention.
For registration and inquiries, please contact the following numbers based on your location:
- Pune City: [Insert Contact Number]
- Pimpri Chinchwad: [Insert Contact Number]
Don't miss this opportunity to safeguard your well-being and promote awareness of cervical cancer prevention. Your participation could make a difference in the lives of countless women.