J&K Bank Organises Breast Cancer Awareness Programme at Corporate Headquarters
Srinagar, October 30: Emphasising the importance of breast health, early detection and timely medical intervention, Jammu and Kashmir Bank on Thursday organised a Breast Cancer Awareness Programme at its Corporate Headquarters in Srinagar under the theme “Know More, Fear Less, Act Early”.
The programme brought together medical experts, cancer survivors and Bank employees to promote awareness about breast cancer, highlight the significance of early diagnosis and encourage informed discussions on patient care, emotional support and the role of caregivers.
Executive Director Sudhir Gupta chaired the programme, which was attended by Chief General Managers Imtiyaz Ahmad Bhat, Ashutosh Sareen and Rajesh Malla Tikoo, besides General Managers, Deputy General Managers, medical experts and other senior officers and employees. Divisional and Zonal Offices across Jammu and Kashmir and outside the Union Territory also participated through video conferencing.
Addressing the gathering, Executive Director Sudhir Gupta underscored the need to create an environment where women feel comfortable discussing their health concerns and seeking timely medical assistance.
“Behind every cancer diagnosis is a person whose concerns extend to her family, her work and the uncertainties ahead. Through this programme, we want to encourage conversations that women can engage in without hesitation or embarrassment,” he said.
He further emphasised that the Bank must foster a supportive workplace culture where employees feel encouraged to prioritise their health and seek necessary medical guidance. He observed that awareness becomes meaningful when it leads to timely action, better understanding and greater compassion towards those facing health challenges.
Earlier, General Manager Aneeta Nehru, in her opening remarks, welcomed the guests and highlighted the importance of prioritising personal health. She stressed that regular screening and timely medical consultation could play a crucial role in improving treatment outcomes.
Renowned Surgical Oncologist Dr Shabnam Bashir, while appreciating the Bank's initiative, delivered an informative presentation on different types of cancer and emphasised the critical importance of early diagnosis.
“Many cancers can be treated successfully when detected at an early stage. Yet around 60 per cent of the cases we receive are already at an advanced stage. We need to talk openly about cancer, recognise warning signs and seek medical advice promptly so that opportunities for early treatment are not lost,” she said.
She also drew attention to the increased risk of cancer associated with tobacco consumption and unhealthy lifestyle choices, urging people to adopt preventive healthcare practices and remain vigilant about their health.
Highlighting the importance of emotional and psychological support, Pain Management and Palliative Care Specialist Dr Henana Berjes spoke about the responsibilities of caregivers and the need for compassionate patient care.
She said that care should extend beyond the management of physical pain to addressing the emotional distress experienced by patients and their families. She emphasised that breast cancer patients require additional love, patience and understanding, adding that attentive listening, emotional reassurance and practical assistance can significantly improve their experience during treatment and recovery.
On the nutritional aspects of breast cancer care, Onconutritionist Dr Umi Laila highlighted the importance of appropriate dietary practices during treatment and recovery. She emphasised that patients should follow balanced and informed nutritional choices tailored to their individual health conditions and treatment requirements.
Adding a deeply personal dimension to the programme, two cancer survivors shared their experiences and journeys, highlighting the importance of courage, timely treatment, family support and emotional resilience in confronting the disease.
An interactive question-and-answer session was also held, allowing participants to raise their concerns and seek expert guidance on breast cancer awareness, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and supportive care.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by General Manager Hafeeza Rahim, who expressed gratitude to the chairperson, senior management, medical experts, cancer survivors and participants for their valuable contributions. She encouraged everyone to take the message of awareness, early detection and compassionate care to their families and communities. ANB
