Pics: Thejaswi U Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Aug 30: CSI Lombard Memorial (Mission) Hospital, Udupi, inaugurated its new breast cancer screening (Mammography) unit on August 30 at the hospital chapel.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed by Swaroopa T K, deputy commissioner of Udupi district, who also lit the ceremonial lamp alongside other distinguished guests.
In her address, Swaroopa T K praised the hospital’s enduring service, saying, “For over 103 years, Mission Hospital has been a pillar of support to the people of this region. During the Covid pandemic, when many hospitals shut down, this institution not only remained open but emerged stronger. It is inspiring to see the hospital’s evolution, particularly its focus on women and children, driven by the leadership of women. I wish the hospital continued success for another century and beyond.”
Ivan D Soans, treasurer of CSI KSD, offered a prayer to bless the unit and commented, “For more than a century, this hospital has been dedicated to the care of mothers and children, a mission that continues with the establishment of this screening unit. Early detection of breast cancer will empower women and strengthen families. Under Dr Sushil Jathanna’s leadership, the hospital has undergone remarkable transformation.”
Dr Sushil Jathanna, director of LMH, explained, “This screening unit is not a profit-making venture but a social service initiative. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, representing 27% of all cancers. In India, one woman dies of breast cancer every eight minutes, leading to nearly 100,000 deaths annually. Alarmingly, 50% of cases occur in women under 50, and cancers in younger women tend to be more aggressive."
He said, "While Western countries have a five-year survival rate of 90%, India’s is only 60%, primarily due to late detection and low awareness. We recommend that women over 45 undergo screening every two years. To make this service accessible, we are offering screenings at an affordable rate of Rs 500, thanks to generous contributions from Stanley Karkada, chairman of the Christian Medical Education Fellowship Trust, and Prema Devadar. We have invested Rs 60 lac to establish this unit.”
The event was also attended by Bharathi Hemachandra, president of the Women’s Fellowship CSI KSD, and Tanuja Maben, counsellor and mind trainer, who wished the hospital continued success.
Dr Deepa Rao, consultant gynaecologist and deputy director of LMH, highlighted the importance of breast cancer awareness and regular screening.
The programme concluded with a prayer by Rev Raichal D’Silva, chaplain of LMH, and a benediction from Ivan D Soans.
Rev Kishor Kumar, area chairman of CSI KSD Udupi, offered a prayer. Dr Suja Karkada, principal of the College of Nursing at LMH, welcomed the attendees, while Shaivalya Devadiga, nursing superintendent, delivered the vote of thanks.
The event was compered by HR Manager Leona Strelita, with staff, students, and other dignitaries in attendance.