Rotary Clubs of Mandi and Chhoti Kashi lead statewide campaign for early diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers
Munish Sood
MANDI:
In a significant public health outreach initiative, the Rotary Club Mandi and Rotary Club of Chhoti Kashi, Mandi, jointly organised a free breast and cervical cancer detection camp near Seri Manch, Mandi, on Monday.
The one-day screening drive, held from 10 am to 5 pm, offered free and confidential cancer screening services to women above the age of 30. A total of 70 women underwent detailed examinations in a specialized mobile medical laboratory, equipped with advanced diagnostic technology.
Advanced mobile lab and complete Privacy
The specially designed mobile lab vehicle, stationed at Seri Manch, was fitted with state-of-the-art equipment for mammography and cervical screening. The facility allowed women to undergo tests privately under the supervision of qualified lady doctors and trained female nursing staff, ensuring complete confidentiality and comfort.
Each participant received an immediate on-the-spot report, indicating whether any further medical evaluation was required. The reports were handled securely, maintaining privacy for every individual screened. The camp primarily focused on early detection of breast and cervical cancers, both of which can be effectively treated if diagnosed in the initial stages.
Women were also educated about warning signs such as unusual lumps, pain, discharge, changes in breast size, skin redness, or abnormal bleeding, and were encouraged to seek medical consultation promptly in case of symptoms.
Part of Rotary District 3070’s statewide drive
The Mandi camp forms an integral part of Rotary District 3070’s statewide cancer awareness and detection campaign, which spans from November 6 to 18, 2025, across five districts of Himachal Pradesh. The ongoing series includes 11 cancer detection camps being organized by Rotary Clubs under the leadership of District Governor Rtn. Rohit Oberoi, with Rtn. Kuldeep Singh providing on-ground coordination.
The schedule of the campaign covers:
• November 6: Bilaspur
• November 7-9: Sundernagar
• November 10: Mandi
• November 11: Nerchowk
• November 12-13: Kullu
• November 14-15: Manali
• November 16: Hamirpur
• November 17-18: Una
The initiative aims to reach thousands of women across Himachal Pradesh through mobile mammography and cervical cancer testing, promoting the message of “Early Detection, Better Protection.”
Speaking on the occasion, Rtn. Kaushlesh Kapoor, President of Rotary Club Mandi, said,
“Cancer is curable when detected early. Through this initiative, we are trying to remove the fear and hesitation that often prevent women from getting screened. Rotary is committed to taking healthcare access directly to the people who need it most.”
Dr. Hemlata, President of Rotary Club of Chhoti Kashi, Mandi, underlined the need for continuous awareness drives, saying,
“Many women delay screening due to lack of information or social taboos. This camp provided a safe and supportive environment where they could get tested with dignity and confidence. Awareness and early diagnosis are the best weapons against cancer.”
The event saw active involvement from Rotary members who handled coordination, registration, and assistance throughout the day. Among those present were Renu Gulati, Suman Sharma, Akhilesh Bharti, Munish Sood, Dharmender Rana, Anil Gupta, Jyotsna Gupta, Aruna Kapoor, Nalin Kapoor, Khushal Thakur, Seema Sharma, Anuradha Sood, Indira Mohini, Yashpal Gulati, Lata Gupta, Nevideta Anand, Prakash Sharma, Dinesh Sharma, and Surinder Mohan.
The camp was appreciated for its meticulous organization, professionalism, and focus on women’s comfort and privacy. Medical experts associated with the drive described it as a model for community-based preventive health programs in the hill state.
Both Rotary Club Mandi and Rotary Club of Chhoti Kashi reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining this campaign through follow-up camps and awareness workshops. The organizers also encouraged local women to educate others about the importance of regular cancer screening.
Rtn. Kaushlesh Kapoor summed up the initiative, saying, “A single test taken in time can save a life. Our goal is to ensure that awareness reaches every home.”
Dr. Hemlata added,
“The overwhelming response from women today shows growing health consciousness in the community. Rotary will continue to build on this momentum in the months ahead.”
