Students taking part in a cancer awareness rally organised by Bharat Hospital and Institute of Oncology in Mysuru on Friday.
| Photo Credit: M.A. SRIRAM
The Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology observed World Cancer Day and organised a rally to create awareness of the disease here on Friday.
Dr. Raxith Sringeri, Surgical Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon at BHIO, said, “Cancer is not solely caused by tobacco and alcohol consumption but is also deeply influenced by lifestyle, mental health, and environmental factors.”
The cancer awareness rally was conducted in association with the Rotaract Club of Teresian College. Dr. Sringeri highlighted the need for a holistic approach that integrates physical fitness, mental well-being, and environmental protection in the fight against cancer.
He also flagged the increase in patients afflicted by cancer in the country and expressed concern over the future. Dr. Sringeri said a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and lack of physical activity significantly increase cancer risk.
Obesity, he noted, was now recognized as a leading cause of various cancers, including breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and trans fats lead to chronic inflammation, which fuels cancer growth while lack of exercise weakens the immune system, slows metabolism, and increases insulin resistance—all factors that can promote tumor development, according to Dr. Sringeri.
The solution is straightforward, he said, calling for a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight to drastically reduce cancer risk.
Dr. Sringeri also stressed the significant role mental health plays in cancer development and pointed out that it was an aspect often overlooked.
“Mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and strong social support can improve mental well-being and are key to cancer prevention,” he added.
Drawing attention to air pollution, Dr. Sringeri said it was a major cause of lung cancer, even among non-smokers, and said that industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and household smoke all contribute to this silent threat.
The rally which included more than 500 students of Teresian College passed through Teresian College – Palya Road (9th Cross), Vinaya Marga, Sangeetha Corner, College Circle, and ended at Teresian College.
Shiva Prasad, faculty coordinator of Rotaract Club, Teresian College, principal S.R. Rohini, Teresian College, and others were present.
Published – February 07, 2025 07:56 pm IST
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