Manipal Hospitals Organizes Cyclothon to Create Awareness on Colorectal Cancer

In an attempt to create awareness and draw attention towards prevention of colorectal Cancer, Manipal Hospitals Bengaluru unveiled cyclothon for healthy life. The event wasflagged off by Ms. Anupama Gowda, Sandalwood Actor in the presence of Dr. Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman Manipal Hospitals, Dr. Somashekhar SP, HOD & Chairman, Manipal Hospitals and Mr. Deepak Venugopal, Regional, COO, Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt Ltd.

The cyclothon was kicks started at 6.00 a.m. – 8.00 a.m and 250 plus people participated. Cyclothon commenced at Manipal Hospitals, old airport road, ASC junction, Trinity junction, Halasaru metro station, Indiranagar metro station, KFC junction, Barbecue nation 100 feet and then back to Manipal Hospitals. Health talks by doctors were conducted post the cyclothon highlighting the causes , symptoms and precautions to be taken to avoid colorectal cancer.

Manipal Hospitals has created a first of its kind cycle zone within the premises, which was inaugurated today. With an aim to motivate employees and general public to adopt a healthy lifestyle and inculcate cycling in their routine.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Anupama Gowda, Sandalwood Actor said, “It is an honour to be associated with Manipal Hospitals for such a great cause. It is important to be aware and well informed and take preventive measures for a deadly disease like cancer. Prevention is better than cure, and the key to prevent colorectal cancer is to educate oneself about the disease. Therefore lets we all must pledge to follow healthy lifestyle for a better future tomorrow.”

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Sudarshan Ballal, Chairman, Manipal Hospitals said,” In India, the incidences of colorectal cancer is rising due to sedentary lifestyle and associated dietary habits resulting in more number of people being diagnosed with the disease at an earlier age. Colon cancer has a strong genetic predisposition, hence, preventive care is recommended to identify the threat much earlier and increase the scope of getting it treated successfully. Manipal Hospitals is always at the forefront when it comes to creating awareness on diseases and I thank everyone for participating in the cyclothon today. It is important to inculcate discipline in our lives to make it better.”

Explaining about colorectal cancer, Dr. Somashekhar SP, HOD & Chairman, Oncology, Manipal Hospitals, “Colonic diseases, both malignant and benign have increased significantly not only in India but globally. This can be attributed to sedentary lifestyle and increase in consumption of junk food, alcohol and smoking. In addition, decreased physical activity has led to rise in obesity, which contributes, to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. It is estimated that in India although the incidence is less as compared to western countries but it is increasing and we see younger patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Surgical management of colorectal cancer is extremely complicated, requiring high level of skill and expertise. Today laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques help the patient with less surgical pain, enhanced recovery and early return to work.”