In a powerful demonstration of commitment to community health, Sanjeevini Cancer Seva Trust, in collaboration with Mangalore Institute of Oncology (M.I.O) and the recently established Cancer Information Centres at Hebri and Karkala, organized “Cancer Jagrithi Abhiyana” Walk on November 22nd, 2025. This initiative successfully mobilized volunteers, staff, and locals to spread life-saving information and encourage early diagnosis.
Marching for Awareness in Rural Karnataka
The primary objective of the Cancer Jagrithi Abhiyana was to combat the prevalent fear and misconceptions surrounding cancer in rural areas by empowering the public with clear, accessible knowledge. The walks at both Hebri and Karkala saw enthusiastic participation:
- Mobilization: M.I.O hospital staff and numerous volunteers joined hands with local residents.
- Information Dissemination: Participants actively carried bright, informative placards and distributed pamphlets detailing common cancer symptoms, risk factors, and the immense benefits of seeking immediate medical attention.
The core message emphasized during the walk was simple yet crucial: Early detection significantly improves the chances of cure. The walk aimed to break the fatalistic belief that a cancer diagnosis is a death sentence, motivating people to present themselves for diagnosis at the first stage of the disease.
The Importance of Community Outreach
These awareness walks are a practical extension of M.I.O and Sanjeevini Cancer Seva Trust’s dedication to outreach, complementing their recent efforts like the 1-Lakh Household Survey and the opening of Cancer Information Centres in rural hubs like Hebri.
By physically taking the message of awareness and early diagnosis to the streets of Hebri and Karkala, the organizations reinforced their pledge to ensure that geographical location is not a barrier to accessing crucial health information. The success of the “Cancer Jagrithi Abhiyana” highlights the effectiveness of grassroots campaigning in building a healthier, more informed community.