The BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry in association with Sashakt- The Ovarian Cancer Foundation, organized a virtual panel discussion on World Ovarian Cancer Day. The prominent speakers of panel discussion were Rajeev Khandelwal (Actor &Advisory Board Member, Sashakt) Dr. Harit Chaturvedi (Chairman, Max Institute of Oncology),Nishtha Gupta (Cancer Survivor) and Mayshree Bhim, Founder & CEO, GNETWORK108. Panel discussion on World Ovarian Cancer Day was inaugurated by Dr. BBL Madhukar,Director General, BRICS CCI and Chairman, FORE School of Management and Mr. Sameep Shastri ,Vice-Chairman, BRICS CCI. Panel discussion was moderated by Megha Ahuja,Founder- Sashakt- The Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
One in seventy-two women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in their lifetime. Unfortunately, most cases are diagnosed in later stages, when the prognosis is really poor. However, if diagnosed and treated early, when the cancer is confined to the ovary, the five-year survival rate is over 90 percent. That is why it is imperative that women, their families and the healthcare community recognize the early signs and symptoms of the disease. It is important that women listen to their bodies and watch for early symptoms. There is currently no early detection test for ovarian cancer. The Pap test does not detect ovarian cancer. That’s why generating the awareness about the subtle symptoms is of paramount importance.
The session was inaugurated with the welcome address of Dr. BBL Madhukar (Director General, BRICS CCI and Chairman, FORE School of Management), who said, “I am delighted to be part of today’s session. Ovarian cancer is emerging as one of the most common malignancies which are affecting women in India. Through this webinar BRICS CCI wishes to sensitize and spread awareness about the growing fatality risk about ovarian cancer. Also, I would like to congratulate Sashakt foundation for their efforts and commitment in supporting women battling the hazardous disease. I hope with this webinar we will be able to help and drive improvements for ovarian cancer on all fronts – awareness, diagnosis, treatment and quality of life.”
Rajeev Khandelwal said, “The younger lot have a lot to bring to the table. Men don’t like discussing things about women issues at home, hence it is very important that youngsters talk about it as well as identify symptoms. You have to observe symptoms and be pushy.”
Dr. Harit Chaturvedi said, ” Globally more than 80% ovarian cancer is diagnosed in stage III or IV. While there are several tools in breast, colon, lung and few other cancers. Somehow ovarian cancer has remained elusive and no amount of awareness effort has made a difference yet. I am very happy to learn that Sashakt- The Ovarian Cancer Foundation has adopted this orphan cancer. I am very hopeful that your efforts would help bring renewed knowledge and fresh direction in this crusade. We are with you at every step in this cancer war. I want to congratulate you for taking this initiative.”
Nishtha Gupta said, “It is a sly monster, and you cannot imagine what it actually it is. For me personally, I was told almost everything in diagnosis except that I was having Ovarian Cancer. For people who don’t keep a check on their bodies, it comes extremely surprising.”
Mayshree Bhim said, “In south African we are doing a lot to change this status quo, to make change and bring change. Somehow because we feel that man are shamed to be a part of it.That’s why we are working towards raising more awareness amongst men through this initiative“
This session was moderated by Megha Ahuja(Founder- Sashakt- The Ovarian Cancer Foundation) said “If we listen to our bodies when it whisper, we won’t have to hear it scream.”
In the closing remarks, Mr. Sameep Shastri (Vice-Chairman, BRICS CCI )stated that, “I on behalf of BRICS CCI wish to thank the panelists and team Sashakt for their time and insights. I believe the session will create awareness among women and eliminate the prevailing myths in the society. And hope that the upcoming technologies, methodologies & advance treatment options backed by strong support of family members, women diagnosed with ovarian cancer can lead quality life and continue reaching for stars and being an inspiration to all around you.”
The highly significant panel discussion was attended by an audience comprising globally recognized oncologists, Cancer survivors, women organizations, members and civil society members.
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