Mumbai, 5 February 2026

In observance of World Cancer Day, the Division of Implementation Science and Behavioural Research (DISBR), Centre for Cancer Epidemiology (CCE), Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) organised a comprehensive cancer awareness programme at the 102 Battalion, Rapid Action Force (RAF), Taloja, Navi Mumbai.

The programme was aligned with the World Cancer Day theme 2025–2027, “United by Unique”, which places people at the centre of cancer care and highlights the importance of individual stories in cancer prevention and control.

The programme was formally inaugurated by Shri Sushanta Kumar Pradhan, Commandant, Rapid Action Force, who emphasised the importance of cancer awareness and preventive health practices among uniformed personnel and their families.

Following the inauguration, experts from DISBR addressed the gathering, underscoring the critical need for cancer prevention, early detection, and timely screening. The session also highlighted the extensive community outreach, capacity-building, and implementation science initiatives undertaken by DISBR to translate scientific evidence into real-world cancer control strategies.

As part of the programme, a 45-minute educational video on cervical cancer prevention and early detection, developed by DISBR, was screened for the participants. The video provided comprehensive information on risk factors, the importance of regular screening, and healthy lifestyle practices to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

The awareness activities were further strengthened through thematic information stalls focusing on common cancers in India—oral, breast, and cervical cancers—along with a dedicated stall highlighting the hazards of tobacco use, one of the leading preventable causes of cancer. These stalls showcased Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials developed by DISBR.

The sessions were facilitated by a doctor and a Medical Social Worker (MSW), who provided structured explanations, addressed participant queries, and actively engaged attendees in discussions on symptoms, screening methods, and preventive strategies.

The programme witnessed active participation from approximately 150 individuals, including RAF personnel and their family members, reflecting strong community engagement and interest in cancer prevention initiatives.

This programme formed part of a series of World Cancer Day initiatives being conducted by DISBR throughout the month of February. As part of these ongoing efforts, DISBR is also organising awareness sessions for corporate employees, educational programmes in medical colleges, and multiple cancer screening camps across different regions of Maharashtra, with major outreach activities planned in Mumbai, Palghar, and Raigad districts.

These initiatives aim to expand cancer awareness, promote early detection, and strengthen community participation in cancer prevention.

The World Cancer Day initiatives reflect Tata Memorial Centre’s continued leadership in translating scientific evidence into impactful community-level action through implementation science and preventive oncology programmes.

 

PIB Mumbai | Sriyanka Chatterjee/Robin Singh/Priti Malandkar

 

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