Delhi hosts First Asian Breast Cancer Congress

{image-breast cancer01_09022008.jpg news.oneindia.in}New Delhi, Feb 9: In an endeavour to raise awareness about the growing threat of breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Asia, Delhi this weekend is hosting the First Asian Breast Cancer Congress. A gathering of 350 researchers and doctors from India and the United States sponsored by Apollo Hospitals are participating in the Congress which began here this morning.

US Ambassador to India David C Mulford introduced the Chief Guest for the Congress, paying tributes to his wife Jeannie Mulford, a breast cancer survivor. Hailing the doctors, surgeons and medical professionals gathered in Delhi today, including her surgeon Dr Hiram Cody, Mrs Mulford called on people to reject any ''taboo'' of speaking about breast cancer as well as ''an open and frank discussion of breast exams, treatment and life after cancer.'' ''Following my diagnosis and treatment, I have spoken to dozens of women of many nationalities throughout America and India who have faced the same battle,'' Mrs Mulford said.

"While it is a sisterhood none of us would have chosen, we are committed to work as partners to help other women who face the same fight to receive the early diagnosis and treatment that will let them lead full lives,'' she added.

Welcoming the delegates, Chairman of the conference and leading cancer surgeon, Dr Veneet Gupta warned of the rapid spread of breast cancer among urban women in India and the urgent need for cooperation among scientists and doctors to provide a multifaceted attack on the disease.

In another effort to sensitise people about breast cancer, the fourth largest killer disease in India and the most prevalent cancer among women in the capital, over 3,000 women and men would take part in a five-kilometer ''Walk for Life'' through the streets of Delhi.

Sponsored by leading NGO CanSupport, the walk beginning at 0900 hrs tomorrow, would be flaged off by Mrs Gursharan Kaur, wife of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The walk would begin from the Central Civil Services sports ground at Vinay Marg and pass through Panchsheel Marg, Shanti Path and Satya Marg before returning to Vinay Marg.

CanSupport activists will be joined by doctors from the Congress, students, government employees and corporate employees from the New Delhi region.

UNI