As healthcare providers observe “Pink October” in Tiruchi, physicians have advised women to self-examine and seek treatment early for breast cancer.
Starting from October 1, women staff aged above 40 working in the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) will undergo mandatory screening mammograms for breast cancer in order to promote effective disease management. A screening mammogram is a routine preventive check-up done on women to detect abnormalities early.
“Until September 30, we have registered 1,010 cases of cancer since the Oncology department (offering medical, surgical and radiation oncology services) became functional in January. Of this, 452 are breast cancer cases. A screening mammogram will pick the smallest calcification and other changes at an early stage. This is one of the reasons we are offering the screening programme to our women staff. It will be extended to the general public, especially women patients and their attenders,” C. Anita Kumar, professor and head, Department of Radiation Oncology, MGMGH, told The Hindu on Thursday.
Dr. Kumar said the hospital received patients from the ages of between 20 and 80. “Most of the breast cancer cases are already in an advanced stage when they come to a tertiary hospital. Awareness and screening programmes at the primary health centre level will help improve early detection and treatment,” she said.
District Health Officer T. Manivannan said that 889 breast cancer cases had been registered in Tiruchi district since a State Health Department screening initiative was launched in June 2025. “We advise all women to regularly examine themselves and voluntarily seek treatment for better outcomes,” the official said.
Awareness activities
In observance of the month, the MGMGH has illuminated the Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care (CEmONC) building in pink lights. “By turning the hospital block pink, authorities seek to inspire and encourage women to step forward for regular health screenings and mammograms,” according to a hospital announcement.
Among the other Pink October activities being planned at the GH, are a meeting of breast cancer survivors and the distribution of crocheted prosthetics to patients. Private hospitals in the city are hosting screening mammogram programmes at a discounted rate during the month.
Awareness runs and walks launched by celebrity guests are scheduled to be held over the coming week.
Published – October 01, 2026 06:59 pm IST
