In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BALCO Medical Centre (BMC), Vedanta’s leading cancer care hospital, has launched “शर्म छोड़ो, गांठो पे बोलो” (Sharm Chodho, Gaantho Pe Bolo), a campaign dedicated to promoting early breast cancer detection and encouraging open conversations free from stigma. This month-long initiative includes a series of programs like free mammography screenings, health camps, a bike rally, and awareness podcasts aimed at educating communities on proactive breast health.
To encourage early detection, BMC provided free digital mammography screenings to women throughout October and hosted a Mobile Cancer Detection Van, which offered health screening camps in nearby villages for women over 45. These camps emphasized the importance of routine check-ups and educated attendees on self-breast exams, empowering them to monitor their breast health independently.
BMC also organized a Breast Cancer Awareness Bike Rally, where over 270 riders from 10 biking groups participated, followed by a symbolic tree-planting event to represent hope and community support for breast cancer awareness. Campaign activities and educational content were shared on social media, including an awareness carousel and expert-led video series.
Dr Bhawna Sirohi, Medical Director at BMC, stated, “Our campaign, ‘Sharm Chodho, Gaantho Pe Bolo,’ aims to foster open conversations about breast health, empowering women to recognize early signs and act without hesitation. With accessible screenings and community-driven discussions, we hope to demonstrate that early detection can save lives.”
Dr. Sirohi also featured in a podcast about breast cancer awareness and led a town hall with BMC employees dressed in pink, fostering internal discussions on their role in patient support and community engagement beyond their professional duties.
Since opening in 2018, BMC has emerged as a key player in India’s cancer care landscape, bringing advanced oncology services to regions including Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. The center’s commitment to education, prevention, and patient-centered care reinforces its mission to lead comprehensive cancer care in India and inspire communities to prioritize their health.
Located in Naya Raipur, BALCO Medical Centre (BMC) is a 170-bed, state-of-the-art oncology facility under Vedanta Medical Research Foundation, a non-profit arm of Vedanta Resources and Bharat Aluminium Company Ltd. (BALCO). Providing extensive cancer care, including medical, surgical, radiation, hematological, and palliative services, BMC is becoming a center of choice for cancer treatment across multiple Indian states, offering support for patients and families on their journey to recovery.