Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death across the globe. The entire Steadfast Consortium office turned into a sea of pink on October 19 as the company celebrated International Day against Breast Cancer to spread awareness about the disease. Various activists, groups, and organisations all around the globe take this event as an opportunity to clear up all the myths prevailing in society and make people more conscious about their bodies.
This year, Steadfast commemorated the event by organising a variety of activities to assess the awareness level of its employees. The company hosted a quiz show on breast cancer that included questions on measures to prevent the disease, the frequency with which individuals should get themselves examined, signs and symptoms to detect breast cancer, etc. All the employees in the organisation wore pink as a symbol of breast cancer awareness, and to express their solidarity with women suffering from the disease. Beautiful posters adorned the entire office, encouraging people to guide their loved ones about the seriousness of breast cancer. The employees welcomed the initiative and took a keen interest in the activities.
"Regular self-examination and early detection is the easiest and most cost-effective approach to combat breast cancer and increase survival rates among patients," Aman Puri, Director, Steadfast MediShield said.
Breast Cancer accounts for 16 percent of all female cancers and is most prevalent in both developing and developed nations. It affects both men and women, but is considerably more common in women.
A crucial part of the event was the discussion over the risks for breast cancer. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has identified certain risk factors for the disease, including a sedentary lifestyle, family history, having the first child after age 30, not having children, taking hormones for menopause, drinking excessive alcohol, being overweight, and using hormonal contraceptives for more than five years. Those above 40 years old or who have had their first menstrual cycle before 12 years are also at higher risk.
Employees were educated about the various steps for self-examination.
Steadfast pledged to do its bit to contain the spread of this deadly disease. Small steps indeed go a long way to make a big difference.