Eastern Railways fights to mitigate the tyranny of the mutated genes.

Cancer – the second leading cause of death globally, continues to exert a tremendous physical, emotional and financial strain on individuals, families, communities and health systems. Many health systems in low- and middle-income countries are least prepared to manage this burden, and large numbers of cancer patients globally do not have access to timely quality diagnosis and treatment. In countries where health systems are strong, survival rates of many types of cancers are improving thanks to accessible early detection, quality treatment and survivorship care.

In India, the systematic collection of data on cancer through the PBCRs and Hospital-Based Cancer Registries is in existence since 1981 under the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR) of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-NCDIR), Bengaluru.

With due cognizance to the vulnerability of this disease, Eastern Railways under the aegis of the Indian Railways has delved into the explorations; it was all a matter of stealthily taking the public along with them.

On the 04^th. February, 2025 while the entire world united to reduce the global cancer burden commemorating World Cancer Day, Eastern Railways had their own divine approach to reconcile the theme, “United by Unique”, a reminder that every cancer journey matters, and that collective action is key to ensuring compassionate, equitable care for all.

Divisional Railway Hospital, Howrah:

World Cancer Day was celebrated with an impactful awareness programme aimed at educating railway patients and beneficiaries about cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment options. The session, conducted under the guidance of Dr. Debasish Guha, Chief Medical Superintendent (CMS) of Howrah Division, saw key medical professionals delivering informative insights. Dr. Supriya Gupta, Senior Divisional Medical Officer (Sr. DMO) of Health & Family Welfare (H&FW), Howrah, moderated the event, while Dr. Subimal Gupta, Assistant Chief Medical Superintendent (ACMS) of Surgery, elaborated on various common cancers such as breast and liver cancer.

Dr. Venkateswar Pandey, ACMS of Howrah, highlighted the significant social aspects of cancer, focusing on the stigma faced by individuals in workplaces and families. Dr. A.K. Bhattacharyya, Senior Consultant, addressed the main causes of cancer, particularly alcohol and smoking abuse, and stressed the importance of seeking early medical intervention for diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Reshmi Basu, Sr. DMO, spoke about the various diagnostic tests available for confirming cancer, while Dr. Nayan Moni Biswas, Sr. DMO, shed light on the common symptoms of gynaecological cancers. Dr. Sneha Reddy, ADMO, highlighted the dangers of both active and passive smoking, particularly in relation to lung cancer. The session served as a crucial platform for disseminating knowledge about cancer prevention and underscoring the importance of early detection.

Divisional Railway Hospital, Malda:

A World Cancer Awareness Program was organised at the Out Patient Department (OPD) complex of the Divisional Railway Hospital, Malda. Dr. Prashanto Kr Roy, Assistant Professor, Department of Oncosurgery, Malda Medical College, was the chief speaker. Dr. Roy emphasized the risk factors of cancer, the importance of early detection, and the need for awareness about precancerous conditions that can be identified by individuals if they are well-informed. He also highlighted the significance of early diagnosis and timely management. An interactive session with healthcare workers provided valuable insights into recognizing early signs and symptoms, aiding in better case detection. The event was chaired by Dr. Surajit Bhattacharya (ACMS) and Dr. S. Banerjee (DMO). The program proved highly beneficial for railway staff, enhancing their understanding of cancer screening guidelines and the importance of early intervention.

Divisional Railway Hospital, Asansol:

At the New Coaching Complex, Asansol, the event was attended by Dr. Rajani Sinha, Divisional Medical Officer / Health & Family Welfare, Asansol, along with SSE/IC/Coaching, field workers, and other staff of the Coaching Complex. Dr. Rajani Sinha introduced the program, highlighting this year’s theme, “United by Unique.” She emphasised the importance of a patient – centered approach to cancer care, recognising that each individual’s experience with cancer is unique and requires personalised treatment and support. She also called for collective action to ensure equitable access to quality cancer care for all. The session included a PPT presentation, and an in-depth discussion on various types of cancer, the need for early detection, symptoms, treatment options, and the role of a healthy lifestyle in curbing. An interactive session followed, where queries from the audience were addressed.

Team Maverick.