Health Centre and the School of Life Sciences (SLS), Central University of Kashmir (CUK) in collaboration with the Cancer Society of Kashmir (CSK), organized a Cancer Awareness Programme to observe National Cancer Awareness Day, at Science Campus, Nunar on Thursday.

In his welcome address, Dr. Abid Ahmad Sofi, Medical Officer and Incharge, Health Centre, emphasized the importance of regular health checkups, early screening, and collective responsibility in spreading cancer awareness.

This was followed by a series of lectures by speakers from the CSK, including Prof. (Dr.) M. Maqbool Lone, Radiation Oncologist and General Secretary, Prof. (Dr.) Nisar Ahmad Wani, Surgical Oncologist and Treasurer, and Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Khan, Radiation Oncologist and Medical Superintendent-cum-Senior Consultant. Prof Akhtar Nakeeb, Vice Chairman CSK was also present.

Prof. Lone spoke on “The Magnitude of Cancer: Why Awareness? Myths about Cancer”, highlighting the growing burden of cancer cases in the region and the need to dispel misconceptions about the disease. Prof. Wani, in his talk on “Symptoms and Signs for Early Diagnosis of Cancer”, elaborated on how timely identification of symptoms can lead to better treatment outcomes. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan presented an insightful discussion on “Can We Prevent Ourselves?”, underlining the role of diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices in reducing cancer risk.

In his presentation on “Cancer Research: Development and Challenges”, Prof. (Dr.) Abid Hamid, Dean, SLS focused on the advancements in cancer research and the ongoing scientific efforts to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

In his message to the participants, CUKashmir, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath lauded the organisers for holding a meaningful programme. He emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering health consciousness, research collaboration, and public health outreach.