In observance of National Cancer Awareness Day, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, alongside BALCO Medical Centre (BMC) in Chhattisgarh, organized a series of health initiatives focused on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. The events were centered on this year’s theme, “Jaldi Pehchaan, Bacha Sakta Hai Aapki Jaan” (Recognize Early, Save Lives).
To promote proactive health practices, Vedanta Aluminium held a health awareness rally and public screening camps in rural Odisha, in collaboration with BMC, one of India’s top cancer care hospitals. They also offered discounted health check-ups and conducted expert talks to educate the public on lifestyle changes and cancer risk factors.
In India, one in nine individuals is at risk of developing cancer, with lung and breast cancers being the most prevalent. National Cancer Awareness Day, marked on November 7, emphasizes the importance of early detection, lifestyle changes, and prevention efforts to address this growing public health challenge.
Key Events:
- Bhawanipatna, Odisha: A cancer awareness rally was organized, drawing over 150 participants from local nursing colleges. The event also featured a combined cancer and sickle cell screening camp at the District Hospital, benefiting more than 100 individuals. The camp was attended by local health officials, including Dr. Sucheta Pani, Chief District Medical Officer, and Dr. Neelesh Jain, Senior Consultant at BMC.
- Lanjigarh, Odisha: A week-long cancer awareness campaign reached 30 villages, educating residents about early signs, symptoms, and common cancer risks. The campaign included a bike rally with 250 participants covering 15 villages. On November 9, a free cancer screening camp, in collaboration with BMC, offered mobile screening for breast, oral, and cervical cancers to local communities, business partners, and employees.
- Employee Awareness: Vedanta hosted an expert discussion led by Dr. Shravan Nadkarni, Surgical Oncologist at BMC, to educate employees on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. The session aimed to empower employees with practical advice on reducing cancer risks and managing their health.
Sunil Gupta, Chief Operating Officer of Vedanta Aluminium, commented, “At Vedanta, we are committed to empowering our communities to live healthier lives. Through initiatives like these, we aim to eliminate the stigma around cancer and ensure better access to healthcare services. Our goal is to raise awareness and create a supportive environment where people feel encouraged to seek early detection and treatment.”
Dr Bhawna Sirohi, Medical Director at BMC, added, “National Cancer Awareness Day serves as a critical reminder to increase awareness and promote proactive health decisions. At BALCO Medical Centre, we are dedicated to inspiring communities to adopt healthier lifestyles and embrace regular screenings as a preventive measure.”
In addition to these efforts, Vedanta’s BMC had previously provided free digital mammography screenings for breast cancer as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Since its establishment in 2018, Vedanta’s state-of-the-art cancer treatment center has become a national leader in oncological care. BMC’s Mobile Cancer Detection Van has also conducted health screening camps for women over 45, promoting self-breast examination and the importance of routine check-ups.
Vedanta’s Healthcare Initiatives: Vedanta Aluminium continues to enhance healthcare access in underserved communities across Odisha and Chhattisgarh through a variety of initiatives:
- Mobile Health Units: Providing primary care in remote areas and offering 24/7 ambulance services.
- Vedanta Hospital, Lanjigarh: A 20-bed multi-specialty hospital offering free healthcare to surrounding communities.
- Nand Ghars: Modern Anganwadis focusing on maternal and child health, nutrition, and development.
- Vedanta Diagnostic Centres: Offering affordable radiology and pathology services in Jharsuguda and Laikera.
- BALCO Hospital: A 120-bed facility serving over 1.8 lakh people annually.
- BALCO Medical Centre: A 170-bed oncology center in Naya Raipur, providing comprehensive cancer care.
Vedanta Aluminium, part of Vedanta Limited, is India’s largest producer of aluminium, producing over half of the country’s aluminium output, amounting to 2.37 million tonnes in FY24. As a leader in value-added aluminium products, Vedanta Aluminium plays a crucial role in core industries and holds the top position in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023 for the aluminium sector. With state-of-the-art smelters, alumina refineries, and power plants, Vedanta Aluminium drives the adoption of aluminium as the “Metal of the Future” for a sustainable tomorrow.
