Mary Kom bats for awareness on cancer, cardiac diseases

Gurgaon, Sep 2: Olympic bronze medallist and five- time world boxing champion Mary Kom today became the face of a campaign to spread awareness among women about cancer and cardiac problems.

Mary Kom has lent her support to the 'Women's Cancer and Cardiac Awareness and Screening Camp' organised by the city- based Artemis Hospitals, which aims to sensitise people across the country, including in the northeast, about such diseases.

"I am not here to speak about the biopic on my life but to enlighten everyone about the power and strength that we women possess," Mary Kom said. Talking about the project, she said, "I hope my association will motivate women to be more thoughtful about their health."

She said she was happy to "take the initiative forward to the northeastern parts of India, where there are a large number of cancer and heart disease (cases) and very low consciousness of the same".

The hospital said that "over a 100 women were given complimentary cardiac and cancer screening tests and specialist consultations today". Devlina Chakravarty, CEO, Artemis Hospitals, said, "We are extremely glad to join hands with Mary Kom and this is the beginning of our association to spread consciousness about the fatal cancer and heart diseases all over India.

"These diseases, if diagnosed and treated at an early stage, can prevent the pain and suffering that the patients and their families undergo."

PTI