Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital Hosts Sarcoma Awareness Event & Anaesthesia Workshop

In recognition of Sarcoma Awareness Month, observed globally in July, HBCHRC hosted an interactive session for patients, caregivers, and senior doctors.

Director Dr Ashish Gulia opened the event, explaining the purpose behind the initiative. He stressed the importance of raising awareness, stating that early consultation can save lives when symptoms of sarcoma appear.

He reassured attendees that effective treatments are available and highlighted the value of patient and caregiver support networks in fostering strength and unity.

Dr Ashish Gulia explained that sarcoma can originate in muscles or bones, and its treatment depends on the cancer stage.

He urged the public to seek medical advice for persistent lumps or swelling, noting that sarcomas are often painless but require early intervention.

He also outlined the hospital’s commitment to providing world-class treatment and extending financial aid to underprivileged patients, ensuring access to advanced therapies.

Interactive Patient-Doctor Dialogue

Senior specialists, including Dr Seema Gulia, Dr Nikhil Tandon, Dr Prabhat Ganju, Dr Sahil Sood, and Dr Nidhi Dhariwal, addressed questions from patients and families.

They clarified that sarcoma treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

The doctors emphasised completing the full course of treatment and warned against stopping care after surgery alone, underscoring that adherence to prescribed plans significantly improves survival outcomes.

Alongside the awareness event, HBCHRC conducted a specialised workshop titled ‘Total Intravenous Anaesthesia (TIVA) in Difficult Airway, A Practical Approach’ as part of the ISA World SIVA Congress.

Program directors Dr Lalita Gauri Mitra and Dr Harsimran Walia led hands-on training sessions focused on TIVA techniques and managing complex airway situations.

Medical professionals from across India participated, gaining practical insights to enhance anaesthesia safety standards.

Dr Ashish Gulia highlighted the significance of continued education and hands-on training for healthcare professionals, noting that evolving medical challenges require constant skill enhancement.

He emphasised that such workshops directly contribute to improving patient safety and treatment quality.

Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August 2022, HBCHRC is dedicated to delivering comprehensive cancer care to Punjab and neighbouring regions.

Established by Tata Memorial Centre under the Department of Atomic Energy at a cost exceeding ₹660 crore, the 300-bed tertiary care facility provides surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplant.

A 125-bed satellite centre in Sangrur extends its reach, serving as a critical hub for advanced cancer treatment in North India.

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