With the International Women’s Day (IWD) Theme ‘ Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ a HEALTH TALK’ on the topic ‘Women’s Health and Cancer Prevention’ was organized by Unity Hospital, Mangaluru delivered by renowned Gynaecologist at Unity Hospital Dr Sharon Rasquinha on 8 March 2024 at 11:30 am. EXPECT LIFE at UNITY HOSPITAL serving the Society since 1978!
Mangaluru: The United Nations has designated the year 2024’s theme as ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ with a focus on addressing economic dis-empowerment. Through this campaign, there is a strong emphasis on recognising the importance of diversity and empowerment in various spheres of society and underscoring the pivotal role of inclusion in advancing gender equality, locally here in Mangaluru, Unity Hospital held a health talk on the topic ‘Women’s Health and Cancer Prevention’ on the occasion of International Women’s Day, on Friday, March 8, at Unity Hospital conference hall.
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually, is a global day acknowledging the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Not only does it celebrate the achievements and progress women have made, but it also highlights the ongoing struggles for equality and the need for continued advocacy and action worldwide. The significance of International Women’s Day lies in its ability to bring attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. It provides a platform for collective action and collaboration in advocating for women’s rights and empowerment. IWD is not just a day to celebrate the achievements of women; it’s also a call to action for gender equality, hereby encouraging reflection, advocacy, and action to continue breaking down barriers for women and girls around the globe.
The talk on the topic ‘Women’s Health and Cancer Prevention’ was delivered by Gynaecologist Dr Sharon Rasquinha, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Unity Hospital, and Mangalore Heart Scan Foundation, Bendore, Mangaluru, who has a specific interest in fertility (NUHS, Singapore), Adolescent Health, High-Risk Pregnancy and deliveries, Gynaec and Laparoscopic Surgeries and cancer Screening. During the talk she focused on menstrual cycles and women’s care, saying, “A one-week delay in the period is not irregular; only if it is delayed for more than 21 days to 35 days should you consult the doctor. Menstrual cups are much better compared to pads, and a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years and is environmentally friendly. You might find it uncomfortable in the beginning, but it’s good once you get used to it. After the age of 17-18, it is recommended, and it is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large.
“You do not need to change them like normal pads. Regarding hormonal disturbances, which are very common in youngsters due to lifestyle and eating habits, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) symptoms are also common and occur because of diet and lack of physical activity. A minimum of half an hour of exercise is necessary for our body. Dealing with stress will affect hormonal balance. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep is required, as lack of sleep causes lots of hormonal disturbances. Symptoms of hormonal imbalance include hair loss, acne, changes in voice, hair growth, weight gain, frequent headaches, and infertility. Changing to a healthy lifestyle is best. If you do not address PCOS, it will cause trouble later in your life,” she said.
Dr Sharon said, “There is a better life through better living. She briefed on the Pituitary Gland Hormones; PCOS Symptoms; Lifestyle, Lack of sleep leading to symptoms; Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances; Need to lose weight; Breast and Cervical Cancer; Disadvantages of young girls having sex at an early age; Regular Checkup will prevent Cancer; and other symptoms. On students’ questions regarding what kind of diet is advisable for a healthy life and which types of cancer are commonly found in women, Dr Sharon replied, “Your diet should consist of fibre, and you should increase your intake of foods such as salads and vegetables. Green leafy vegetables are helpful, and it’s advisable to reduce carbohydrates once you reach the age of 35. As for women, breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer are commonly found. The Pap smear test is very effective in detecting cervical cancer, which is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Before concluding Dr Sharon said, “There is a vaccine available for HPV, and if given to women at an early age, it can be very helpful. Basic tests such as sugar, thyroid, haemoglobin, ultrasound scan, mammogram, and others help to determine your overall health status. If you are HEALTHY and HAPPY, your entire FAMILY will be HEALTHY and HAPPY. Take precautions and do regular check-ups to live a longer and healthier Life.”
Dr Raju George, CEO of Unity Hospital stated, “According to the latest statistics from the Indian Council of Medical Research, the number of cancer cases is expected to rise. Early detection is therefore crucial for us. Unity Hospital is committed to expanding early diagnostics. As the burden of risk increases, the success of cancer treatment diminishes, making early detection the only effective preventive measure. Patients with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cancer. In the United Kingdom, individuals with a family history of cancer undergo regular check-ups, with the government taking the initiative in this regard. Similarly, we aim to develop a system where we proactively inform women about the importance of regular check-ups.”
“PCOS is increasingly prevalent in India, and breast cancer accounts for 27% of all women’s cancers. Self-examination for breast abnormalities is crucial. In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, parents are proactively administering the HPV vaccine to their children before they go to college. In light of these concerns, Unity Hospital has introduced a special package at a reduced cost of 1000 rupees for the next 3 days. It is imperative that patients do not neglect their health and attend regular check-ups,” he said.
Devaraj, the General Manager of operations, at Unity Hospital; Deepak Shetty- Marketing Head, of Unity Hospital Health Care; among nurses and health care staff were present for the talk. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Unity Hospital will hold a 3-day special health package from March 7-9. The package consists of RSB, TSH, Pap Smear, HB, Urine Routine and Gynaecologist consultation, all under Rs 1000 only. gynaecologist Consultation will be done by Dr Bharathi Nirmal and Dr Sharon Rasquinha.
