Mumbai: Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital (HN RFH) announced the launch of SEEDS, a unique initiative aimed at increasing awareness that helps prevent cancer and also encourages early diagnosis. Padma Shri Vidya Balan alongside leading international cancer expert and Director Onco-sciences, HN RFH, Dr Vijay Haribhakti, launched this initiative in the presence of the CEO of HN RFH, Dr Tarang Gianchandani and Mrs Priya Datt, Chairperson, Nargis Dutt Foundation. “SEEDS” is a mnemonic for Shun Tobacco, Eat Correctly, Exercise Regularly, Dump obesity and excess alcohol, and Stay vigilant about your family history aims at making more and more people aware about the tenets of cancer prevention.
To discuss the various challenges and solutions to curtail cancer, a distinguished panel including leading experts and stakeholders was conducted. Moderated by Dr Sewanti Limaye, Director, Medical & Precision Oncology and Oncology Research the panel included Mrs. Priya Dutt, Chairperson, Nargis Dutt Foundation, Dr. Jagmeet Madan, National President, Indian Dietetic Association, Dr. Aashish Contractor, Director Rehab, HN RFH, Dr. Avinash D’Souza, Consultant Psychiatrist, HN RFH, and Dr. Vijay Haribhakti. The panel discussion was centred on ‘Prevent Cancer, Preserve Life’. Each expert shed light on different aspects of Cancer Prevention. It was an interactive and informative session that focused on solutions.
Speaking on the motivation behind this mission, Dr Vijay Haribhakti pointed out, “The current focus of most stakeholders remains on treatment of cancer. While precision oncology and advancement in treatment will continue to remain crucial, we can do much more by nipping the disease in the bud. Tobacco alone is responsible for 50% of cancer incidence. Similarly, there are other measures which can help prevent cancer. Also, awareness can help early diagnosis which can play a huge role in complete recovery of patients.”
Padma Shri Vidya Balan said, “Someone very close to me was recently diagnosed with cancer. I want to thank Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and the entire team of doctors who have been instrumental in helping us at a critical time like this. The doctor told us that cancer is preventable and I wish we all do tests from time to time to make sure we are keeping cancer at bay.”
Dr. Tarang Gianchandani, CEO, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital said, “Cancers have a tip of the iceberg phenomenon, where most often, the symptoms of cancer may not be obvious or present until the disease has progressed, affecting the Quality of Life. While the focus worldwide is on treatment, ours is on prevention ahead of treatment. Therefore we at Sir HN Reliance are dedicated to offer means to prevent Cancer. We as an institution want to bridge the gap and follow the approach that meets the objective of early identification amongst ‘at risk’ individuals through preventive strategies.