"Empowering women through early detection and survivor stories, Zydus Lifesciences' Easiest Exam campaign highlights essential insights from renowned oncologists and the inspiring journey of breast cancer survivor Divya Bajaj." Vinta Nanda reports…

Photography: Vinta Nanda

In an impactful panel discussion held on 24th October 2024 in Mumbai, Zydus Lifesciences united leading oncologists and the inspiring breast cancer survivor Divya Bajaj for the Easiest Exam campaign, underscoring the importance of early detection in saving lives. Moderated by actor Mandira Bedi, the panel discussed vital steps in breast cancer awareness, with Bajaj’s courage and advocacy resonating as hope for those facing the disease. From the latest in detection methods to survivor stories that inspire, Zydus Lifesciences aims to educate and encourage proactive health measures against breast cancer.

Mumbai, 24th October 2024 — In a significant move towards raising awareness about breast cancer, Zydus Lifesciences hosted a powerful panel discussion under its Easiest Exam campaign, inviting leading oncologists from across India and an inspiring breast cancer survivor, Divya Bajaj. The session, moderated by actor Mandira Bedi, was a call to action for both education and early detection in the fight against breast cancer, which claims countless lives each year despite being one of the most treatable cancers when diagnosed early.

The esteemed panellists included Dr. Vinod Raina, Chairman – Oncology, Fortis Gurgaon; Dr. D.G. Vijay, Senior Consultant - Surgical Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad; Dr. Meenu Walia, Vice Chairman - Medical Oncology, Max Hospital, New Delhi; Dr. Sandeep Goyle, Head, Medical Oncology, KDA, Mumbai; and Dr. Palanki Satya Dattatreya, Chief - Medical Oncology, Renova Hospitals, Hyderabad. Representing Zydus Lifesciences was Mr. Samir Desai, President of BU Biologics, who emphasized the company's commitment to supporting health initiatives through accessible information and proactive screenings.

At the heart of this campaign was breast cancer survivor Divya Bajaj, whose courageous story became a central theme of the discussion. Bajaj, who has faced the illness and the stigma surrounding it, spoke about the transformative power of early detection, the importance of self-exams, and the need to dispel persistent myths about the disease. "When it comes to breast cancer, silence can be deadly. Every woman needs to know the importance of early detection and be empowered to take control of her health,” she said. Through her advocacy, Bajaj embodies the spirit of survival and the importance of timely action.

Among the key insights shared by the panellists was the significance of regular self-examinations and mammograms, particularly for women over the age of 45, with the statistic that 1 in 29 women in India will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Dr. Meenu Walia noted, “Regular self-checks and awareness are often the first line of defence. The sooner abnormalities are detected, the better the chances of treatment and survival.” Highlighting the role of lifestyle changes, Dr. D.G. Vijay discussed how incorporating exercise, a balanced diet, and mental health support could reduce the risk of cancer and improve overall well-being.

Divya Bajaj’s story punctuated the discussion with the human experience behind medical facts. Her presence on the panel stressed the necessity of survivor stories in encouraging women to prioritize their health and take proactive steps towards early detection. Bajaj’s advocacy has reshaped how breast cancer is viewed, inspiring others to approach the illness without fear and misinformation. Her role as a survivor has empowered countless individuals, proving that support, self-belief, and the right information can make a significant difference.

In addition to self-examinations, the panel emphasized toxic environments as the primary cause of the spread of cancer, the value of regular mammograms and consultations with healthcare professionals, especially for those with a family history of the disease.

With India experiencing a high rate of late-stage diagnoses, the importance of early detection was a critical takeaway. Dr. Sandeep Goyle pointed out, “Knowledge about the disease, its risk factors, and symptoms must reach all corners of society, including men who play a key role in influencing family health.”