Initiative aims to promote early detection as breast cancer cases rise among younger women; hospital reports around 100 patients visiting its Medical Oncology Department every month

 

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, OCTOBER 16, 2026

In a move to promote early detection of breast cancer and encourage women to take charge of their breast health, the Department of Medical Oncology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar, on Friday inaugurated a portable Breast Self-Examination (BSE) Booth, billed as the first of its kind in India.

The initiative, launched as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, seeks to address gaps in awareness and overcome hesitation among women in performing breast self-examinations. The booth provides a private space where women can learn the steps involved in examining their breasts through simple, easy-to-follow instructions displayed on its walls. The department also plans to set up a permanent booth in the near future.

Inaugurating the facility, AIIMS Bhubaneswar Executive Director Dr. Ashutosh Biswas underscored the importance of early detection in improving breast cancer outcomes. He stressed that awareness, regular attention to breast health and timely medical consultation were crucial in helping women identify unusual changes and seek professional advice without delay.

Highlighting the growing burden of the disease, Dr. Sourav Kumar Mishra, Associate Professor in the Department of Medical Oncology, said the department had treated approximately 1,000 breast cancer patients since its establishment four years ago, with around 100 patients visiting the department every month.

Expressing concern over the considerable number of patients presenting with advanced-stage disease, Dr. Mishra also pointed to the increasing incidence of breast cancer among younger women. The trend highlights the need for sustained awareness campaigns, early diagnosis and timely access to appropriate treatment, he said.

The department also emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to cancer care, noting that treatment must address patients’ emotional and psychological well-being alongside their medical needs. Yoga, meditation, structured exercise, music and relaxation techniques can help patients manage stress and cope better with treatment.

Sessions involving yoga, meditation, music and singing have been organised to provide patients with opportunities for relaxation, emotional expression and peer support.

The awareness programme was marked by a musical gathering in which faculty members, staff and cancer fighters came together to sing Hum Honge Kamyaab Ek Din. Patients shared their personal journeys, recounting their struggles, resilience and determination in confronting cancer.

Observed globally every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims to raise awareness about the disease, promote early diagnosis and timely treatment, and strengthen support for patients and survivors.

Dean Dr. Dillip Kumar Parida, Medical Superintendent Dr. Prabhas Ranjan Tripathy, Deputy Director (Administration) Lt. Col. Abhijit Sarkar, Dr. Sourav Kumar Mishra and Dr. Saroj Das Majumdar were among those present, along with other faculty members, staff and patients.

The new booth is expected to serve as a practical step towards making breast health awareness more accessible, encouraging women to seek medical advice promptly and reinforcing the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer.