Breast cancer is among the most diagnosed cancer worldwide and accounts for 25% of all cancer cases in women. Early detection is the best solution to preventing this disease. Mammography and regular elf-examination at regular intervals are some of the other ways to diagnose the disease and get better results.

The Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) is among the best cancer hospitals in the world. They launched ArtCan, a unique initiative that uses art as a medium for spreading awareness of breast cancer. Apollo Cancer Centres collaborated with mural artists and breast cancer survivors for creating art that educates and empowers every woman about regular self-breast examination.

With the help of the ancient Kerala Mural Arts, 8 steps of self-breast examination will be brought attention to the issue of breast cancer. Each individual frame shows the story of a woman who discovered their condition while doing a self-breast exam. They acted timely and defeated cancer. These eight essential steps have been depicted in the book called Chitra Sutra.

The Mural Arts were unveiled by Dr. Surinder Singh Bhatia, Director of Medical Services, Eastern Region, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, Consultant- Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Arundhati De, Consultant-Radiation Oncologist, artist Jujilal, and breast cancer survivors.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Arundhati De said “Life imitates art. Artcan transcends languages and cultural barriers. With the help of this initiative, one will be able to create a silent conversation and leave a deep impression in the minds of the women. Getting tested for cancer at the correct time will help make a difference in women’s lives. Hence be cautious and do not panic”.

Breast cancer comes with different stigmas and challenges. However, timely treatment aids in better treatment of the patients.

Priyanka Dutta