World Cancer Day Program Highlights Awareness, Policy Dialogue and Caregiver Support
New Delhi, February 4: Marking World Cancer Day under the global theme ‘United by Unique,’ CanCare India Foundation, in association with Relicus and the Quaid-e-Millath Center, organised a comprehensive cancer awareness programme bringing together healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, students and community leaders.
The event was inaugurated by Member of Parliament Adv. Haris Beeran, who addressed the current healthcare landscape, emphasising rising cancer mortality, the financial burden of treatment and the need for affordable medicines. He also noted recent policy steps, including the abolition of customs duty on certain cancer drugs, following his sustained advocacy on treatment affordability.
Junaid, psychologist and founder of Relicus, delivered the presidential address, highlighting Relicus’ ongoing work to improve community mental well-being by providing easier access to renowned psychologists and creating supportive platforms where students can seek professional guidance and emotional support. He emphasised the importance of integrating psychological care into public health initiatives.
Dr. Mohamed Sheedh presented a detailed lecture explaining cancer biology, risk factors, disease development, diagnosis and treatment strategies. He highlighted gaps in cancer care delivery, policy-level challenges and the growing impact of misinformation, stressing the need for informed public engagement and evidence-based awareness.
A significant segment of the programme focused on caregiver well-being. Sayyid Mubashir Ebrahim, Senior Research Fellow at Jamia Millia Islamia, addressed caregiver fatigue — an often overlooked issue — while families of cancer survivors shared lived experiences, drawing attention to the emotional and social challenges faced by patients and caregivers.
Dr. Mohamed Sheedh
The programme, coordinated by Shifana, concluded with remarks by Shahid Thiruvalluvar, IIS. Certificates were distributed to all participants. Among the dignitaries present were Shibu Meeran, Adv. Marzook Bafaki Thangal Supreme court advocate, Mohammed Haleem KMCC Delhi Vice President, TP Ashraf Ali, Dr. Aafreen Anver, and Dr. Shamseer, Professor at Delhi University, along with students from Delhi University, Jamia Millia Islamia and Aligarh Muslim University.
Organisers reiterated that the mission of CanCare India Foundation is to reduce cancer incidence through education and public awareness. The foundation has previously hosted the CanClave Cancer Awareness Conference at Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre and played a key role in achieving 100% cancer literacy in Kottakkal Municipality.
Earlier world cancer day was celebrated by CanCare foundation with students of Kerala School in RK Puram in association with DnipCare.
Relicus, in collaboration with CanCare India Foundation, also announced an upcoming webinar on psycho-oncology by Dr. Nizam Hathrami, scheduled for February 15, aimed at advancing dialogue on the psychological aspects of cancer care.
