Breast Cancer Short Film Released
Film actor Manorama (second right) releases the CD of a short film on breast cancer made by Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research. Managing Trustee of S.N.R. Sons Charitable Trust R. Venkatesulu (second left) receives the first copy. Director of the institute P. Guhan (left) is in the picture. This short film stresses early detection of breast cancer, to enable early and effective treatment. Produced by Sri Ramakrishna Institute of Oncology and Research, it has three main characters who stress awareness and quick reaction from the patients, such as screening and approaching cancer specialists for treatment. Titled “Penn” (woman), the film was released recently by actor Manorama. Director of the institute P. Guhan said compact discs of the film could be obtained free of cost from the institute. “We are offering it free of cost with a view to spreading more awareness among women on the detection of breast cancer and treatment,” he said.
“Women’s organisations, voluntary bodies and even women’s colleges can take the CDs from us and screen the film to educate women, including students,” Dr. Guhan said. Those interested could contact the institute on the following phone numbers: 4389797 and 4500203. Dr. Guhan said the making of the film was yet another effort towards sensitising women to the need for early detection. It was already carrying out another programme, “Deepam,” under which free screening and sensitisation camps were being held every day at rural and urban health centres.
As for the film, the first character told the viewers that all lumps in the breasts need not be cancers. But, if women had any doubts, they should get these clarified with a doctor. The second one stressed early detection to minimise agony and prolong life. The third one deals with inhibition among women in discussing lumps detected in the breasts. It says ignoring a lump could prove fatal. Kovai Medical Center and Hospital held a breast cancer awareness camp on Sunday as part of the International Breast Cancer Awareness Month observance.
A team led by consultant in medical oncology and haematology Sarada Krishnamurthy screened women and provided counselling on breast examination and management of cancer. The hospital said that the camp stressed awareness among the people on the need for early detection, screening methods such as mammogram and effective treatment. Gathering as much information as possible was the best way to know of the disease. It explained that breast cancer was a malignant tumour that grew in one or both the breasts.
Breast cancer usually developed in the ducts or lobules, more commonly known as the milk producing areas of the breast. If detected early through screening programmes, breast cancer was potentially curable. In many instances, more than one of the following modalities of treatment might be necessary: surgery, followed by chemotherapy and or radiation therapy and or hormonal manipulation. Dr. Sarada and her team counselled the women who attended the camp on breast self-examination and also lifestyle and diet modification to prevent obesity, which was a major risk factor.
