Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru, Feb 15: KMC Hospital Attavar observed International Childhood Cancer Day with the theme ‘Unveiling Challenges’ here at KMC Hospital Attavar on Thursday. February 15.
Pro vice chancellor, MAHE (Mangaluru campus), Dr Dilip G Nayak and The Powerhouse fame, influencer and Tulu content creator Sharan Chilimbi were the chief guests for the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Dilip G Nayak said, “The children are young warriors and they are the inspirations who fight alone to battle the cancer."
Sharan Chilimbi said, "We live in the present moment. Tomorrow whether we will exist or not, we are unsure. There might be fears concerning cancer as to whether we will make it or not but we need to live every present moment very happily which I strongly believe and I follow the same to enjoy every moment of present."
Dr Harsha Prasad L said, “The survival rate of cancer in developed countries is 80% whereas survival in developing and underdeveloped countries it is about 35% to 40%. We need to work on decreasing the gaps of survival rate compared to the developed countries. As per statistics, every year more than 6 lac children are affected with various diseases and so far as the treatment is concerned, South India has upgraded in the last 5-6 years.”
Meanwhile donors were honoured by the chief guests. Vivek and Laxminarayan shared their thoughts on how their children survived cancer with the quality of treatment provided by KMC.
Regional chief operating officer Dr Saghir Siddiqui and chief manager (operations) Dr Raviraj were also present.
Consultant paediatric haematologist Dr Harsha Prasad L and head of department of paediatrics Dr Suchetha S Rao welcomed the gathering, Dr Sannidhi and Dr Divya compered the event.
KMC Hospital has been treating children with cancer since the year 2000.
• It is the only dedicated Paediatric Oncology unit in Dakshina Kannada District with a 15-bed Paediatric Oncology ward, a dedicated Paediatric oncologist, a Paediatric surgeon, staff nurses, social worker, data manager, and efficient blood bank pathology services.
• It has treated over 600 children with cancer so far.
• Every year, it sees around 100–120 children with cancer.
• The survival of children here with acute lymphoblastic leukemia is one of the best in India (published in an international medical journal) - An event-free survival rate of 85% @ 3 years.
• It has been observing ICCD for the past 8 years to raise awareness, help and support families, bring the families together, and raise funds for their treatment.
• It has partnered with local NGOs to help families.