Student Engagement Marks the Beginning
The observance commenced on February 3, 2026, with student-centric activities aimed at fostering awareness and creative engagement. A slogan competition and an essay writing contest were organised to sensitise young minds about cancer prevention, early diagnosis and the importance of holistic healthcare approaches.
These initiatives encouraged students to actively engage with public health issues while reinforcing the role of education in promoting long-term behavioural and lifestyle changes linked to cancer prevention.
Main Programme Held on World Cancer Day
The main programme was held on February 4, 2026, at the AIIA campus and witnessed participation from eminent professionals across disciplines. The inaugural session was graced by Director of AIIA Prof. (Dr.) Pradeepkumar Prajapati, Medical Superintendent Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, Dean FAUM Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala and Dean (PG) Prof. (Dr.) Ramakant Yadav, along with senior faculty members.
The dignitaries highlighted the rising burden of cancer in India and underlined the relevance of Ayurveda-based integrative oncology in prevention, supportive care and survivorship.
Patient Awareness and Sensitisation Drive
A key component of the morning session was patient sensitisation and awareness activities conducted at the hospital OPD premises. Faculty members, doctoral scholars and postgraduate students interacted with patients and their attendants, educating them about early warning signs of cancer, lifestyle-related risk factors and preventive strategies.
The sessions also focused on the supportive role of Ayurveda in enhancing immunity, improving quality of life and managing side effects associated with conventional cancer treatments.
Academic Discourse and Expert Insights
The afternoon session featured expert lectures and academic deliberations. A detailed report on CIO activities undertaken during 2025 was presented by Dr. Amrish Dedge, outlining initiatives in integrative cancer care, research, outreach and patient services.
An information brochure of the Centre for Integrative Oncology was formally released, aimed at disseminating knowledge about integrative oncology services available at AIIA.
Guest Lecture on Molecular Oncology
The highlight of the academic session was a guest lecture by Dr. Ashok Patel, Associate Professor at the Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi. He provided insights into the molecular basis of cancer, genomics and the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches in oncology research and healthcare.
Dr. Patel was felicitated for his contribution, and winners of the student competitions were awarded for their creative and intellectual engagement with the theme of cancer awareness.
Ayurveda’s Role in Integrative Cancer Care
In his presidential address, Prof. (Dr.) Pradeepkumar Prajapati emphasised the vital role of Ayurveda in cancer prevention through lifestyle modification, dietary regulation and immunity enhancement. He reiterated AIIA’s commitment to advancing evidence-based integrative oncology and strengthening collaboration between traditional and modern medical systems.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Pramod Yadav, acknowledging the collective efforts of faculty members, students, speakers and participants in making the observance impactful.
