School Students pledge to work towards cancer free Dharmapuri

Dharmapuri Social Service Society launched Ezhuvom Iyakkam Cancer Care Campaign programme on 25^th January, 2020 at  Sacred Heart School. It was presided over by Dharmapuri MLA, Mr. P. Subramani. In his presidential address, he said that the use of tobacco products like smoking cigarettes and chewing pan is the single most preventable cause of death and youth should desist from this bad habits.  Msgr Amburose, Vicar General of Dharmapuri Diocese inaugurated this movement in the presence of, Fr. Maria Joseph, Pastoral Centre Director, and Commission Secretaries. 1200 school students, 60 teachers, and 175 registered volunteers were present.

Msgr. Ambrose advised the student community to maintain personal and public hygiene that can make an impact in reducing the cancer risk.

The Programme commenced with awareness rally with students carrying placards on the issue of cancer. Dean, RMO, and Professor from the Oncology department, Dharmapuri Government Medical College and hospital spoke on cancer causes and prevention. They also explained the symptoms and warning signs of the disease. The evolution and Purpose of Ezhuvom campaign was explained by Dr. John Arokiaraj, Manager, Caritas India. He said hat cancers of major public health relevance such as breast, oral, cervical, gastric, lung, and colorectal cancer can be cured if detected early and treated adequately. Tie up with medical institutions is a good opportunity for screening and if detected initiate the treatment at once he observed.

All the speakers were insisting on the concerted efforts in addressing this health issue. Sports events for volunteers were organised highlighting the importance of physical exercises and good food practices which can drastically reduce the risk of cancer among the younger generation. Three thousand pamphlets on cancer awareness were distributed among the students and the general public. The entire congregation took the pledge to fight against cancer and establish Cancer free Dharmapuri District.  DSSS will be co-ordinating with Cluny HIV/AIDS and cancer palliative care center. The programme was well organised by DSSS team led by its Director Fr. R. Jesudas.