With the theme of International Women’s Day (IWD) “Investing in Women: Accelerating Progress”, a health conference on the theme “Women’s Health and Cancer Prevention” was organized by the Unity Hospital, Mangaluru, delivered by the famous Gynecologist of Unity Hospital, Dr. Sharon Rasquinha on 8th March 2024 at 11:30 AM. EXPECT LIFE at UNITY HOSPITAL serving the Society since 1978!
Mangaluru: The United Nations has designated the theme for 2024 as “Investing in Women: Accelerating Progress,” with a focus on combating economic disempowerment. Through this campaign, there is a strong focus on recognizing the importance of diversity and empowerment in various spheres of society and the central role of inclusion in promoting gender equality . Here in Mangaluru, Unity Hospital organized a health conference on the theme “Status of Women. Health and Cancer Prevention’ on the occasion of International Women’s Day, Friday, March 8, in the conference room of Unity Hospital.
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually, is a global day recognizing the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This day also marks a call to action to accelerate gender parity. Not only does it celebrate the achievements and progress made by women, but it also highlights the ongoing struggles for equality and the need for continued advocacy and action around the world. The importance of International Women’s Day lies in its ability to draw attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. It provides a platform for collective action and collaboration to advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. IWD is not just a day to celebrate the achievements of women; it is also a call to action for gender equality, encouraging reflection, advocacy and action to continue breaking down barriers for women and girls around the world.
The lecture on the theme ‘Women’s Health and Cancer Prevention’ was delivered by Gynecologist Dr Sharon Rasquinha, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Unity Hospital, and Mangalore Heart Scan Foundation, Bendore, Mangaluru, who hosted particularly interested in fertility (NUHS, Singapore). , adolescent health, high-risk pregnancies and deliveries, gynecological and laparoscopic surgeries and cancer screening. During the talk, she focused on menstrual cycles and women’s care, saying: “A week’s delay in menstruation is not irregular; only if it is delayed more than 21-35 days should you consult a doctor. Menstrual cups are much better than sanitary napkins, and a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years and is environmentally friendly. You might find it uncomfortable at first, but it’s fine once you get used to it. After 17-18 years it is recommended and it is available in three sizes: small, medium and large.
“You don’t need to change them like normal pads. Concerning hormonal disorders, very common among young people due to lifestyle and eating habits, the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are also common and occur due to diet and lack of physical activity. A minimum of half an hour of exercise is necessary for our body. Dealing with stress will affect hormonal balance. Sleeping 7 to 8 hours is necessary, because lack of sleep causes many hormonal disturbances. Symptoms of a hormonal imbalance include hair loss, acne, changes in voice, hair growth, weight gain, frequent headaches and infertility. It is better to switch to a healthy lifestyle. If you don’t fight PCOS, it will cause problems later in life,” she said.
Dr Sharon said: “There is a better life through a better life. She gave information about pituitary hormones; PCOS symptoms; Lifestyle, lack of sleep leading to symptoms; Symptoms of hormonal imbalances; Need to lose weight; Breast and cervical cancer; Disadvantages of young girls having sex at an early age; Regular examination will prevent cancer; and other symptoms. To students’ questions regarding the type of diet recommended for healthy living and the most common types of cancer in women, Dr. Sharon responded: “Your diet should consist of fiber and you should increase your intake of foods such as salads and foods. vegetables. Green leafy vegetables are useful and it is advisable to reduce carbohydrates once you reach the age of 35. In women, breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer are common. The Pap test is very effective in detecting cervical cancer, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Before concluding, Dr. Sharon said: “There is a vaccine for HPV, and if given to women at an early age, it can be very helpful. Basic tests such as sugar, thyroid, hemoglobin, ultrasound, mammogram and others help determine your overall health. If you are healthy and happy, your whole FAMILY will be healthy and happy. Take precautions and get regular checkups to live a longer, healthier life.
Dr Raju George, CEO, Unity Hospital, said, “According to the latest statistics from the Indian Council of Medical Research, the number of cancer cases is expected to increase. Early detection is therefore crucial for us. Unity Hospital is committed to expanding early diagnostics. As the burden of risk increases, the success of cancer treatment declines, making early detection the only effective preventative measure. Diabetic patients are at higher risk of developing cancer. In the UK, people with a family history of cancer undergo regular check-ups, with the government taking the lead in this. Similarly, we aim to develop a system to proactively inform women about the importance of regular checkups.
“PCOS is increasingly prevalent in India and breast cancer accounts for 27% of all female cancers. Self-examination to detect breast abnormalities is crucial. In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, parents are proactively administering the HPV vaccine to their children before they go to college. In light of these concerns, Unity Hospital has introduced a special package at a discounted cost of Rs 1,000 for the next 3 days. It is imperative that patients do not neglect their health and undergo regular check-ups,” he said.
Devaraj, chief operating officer of Unity Hospital; Deepak Shetty – Head of Marketing, Unity Hospital Health Care; among nurses and nursing staff were present for the conference. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Unity Hospital will organize a special 3-day health package from March 7th to 9th. The package includes RSB, TSH, Pap Smear, HB, Urine Routine and Gynecologist consultations, all for less than Rs 1000 only. The gynecologist consultation will be carried out by Dr. Bharathi Nirmal and Dr. Sharon Rasquinha.
