The Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched ArtCan, a unique initiative which uses art as a medium to spread awareness about breast cancer. Apollo Cancer Centres joined hands with mural artists and survivors to curate art that educates and empowers every woman about the importance of regular self-breast examination.
Through ancient Kerala Mural Arts, 8 steps of self-breast examination bring attention to the issue of breast cancer. Each frame reflects the story of a woman who discovered this condition while performing a self-breast examination, acted on time, and defeated cancer. These eight steps have also been depicted in a book format called ‘Chitra Sutra’.
The Mural Arts were unveiled at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi. The unique initiative was inaugurated by Amal Allana, Director, Art Heritage Gallery, Lifetime Trustee, Alkazi Foundation for the Arts and Ex-Chairperson, National School of Drama, along with the eminent artist Ramesh, breast cancer experts, and winners.
Speaking during the launch of the campaign, Amal Allana, Director, Art Heritage Gallery, said, “Art facilitates communication between patients and healthcare personnel by bringing forth insights from the patients’ views that can be communicated to the world. I appreciate Apollo Cancer Centres’ use of art as a medium to educate and raise awareness about self-breast examination. I’m hoping that this initiative will reach women from all over the country and help them win over breast cancer. “
Shivakumar, Managing Director, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said, “In keeping with our vision of being at the forefront of cancer research, we have launched the ‘ArtCan’ breast cancer awareness campaign. It’s a popular belief that life imitates art, and hence, art has the power to transcend languages and cultural barriers. Our initiative, ArtCan, will create a silent conversation and leave a deep impression on the audience. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer globally and accounts for 25% of all cancer cases in women. Early detection is the key to better outcomes. We believe ancient Kerala mural art is a unique medium to create awareness about breast cancer and the importance of self-breast examination (SBE)”.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Ramesh Sarin, Senior Consultant-Surgical Oncology, said, “In 2022, over 20 lakh cases of breast cancer have been witnessed so far. Apollo Cancer Centres has been a leader in oncology and has treated multiple complex cancer cases. Understanding and getting tested for cancer at the right time can make a difference in saving a life. This initiative of ours to teach early detection of breast cancer by BSE (breast self-examination) in the form of art will convey a mesmerising message to the masses so that they are aware of breast cancer and understand the symptoms to get tested at an early stage.”
The winner shared her thoughts on the initiative and said, “Apollo Cancer Centre has been my pillar of strength throughout my journey of winning over cancer. Breast cancer came with stigmas and loads of challenges, but the timely medical treatment and tender loving care of Apollo helped me through. As a survivor myself, in line with this initiative of ArtCan, I encourage women all around India to get regularly tested for breast cancer. Early detection not only increases the chances of survival but can be treated in the best way possible without complications. “
It was truly fulfilling to work on this one-of-a-kind project, ArtCan. We are glad that Apollo Cancer Centres are using this powerful medium of storytelling through traditional Indian art to disseminate important medical information. Information that can save thousands of lives. At the same time, this effort is shining a spotlight on India’s proud artistic heritage and our master artists, which really aligns with our mission, “said Ramesh, mural artist.”
Breast cancer is a result of multiple factors, which include environmental and lifestyle changes. In most cases, it is due to anomalies that arise out of the ageing process, while in 5–10% of the cases, it is genetically inherited. Early detection is the best protection against breast cancer. Regular self-examination and mammography at regular intervals have proven to be most effective in early diagnosis and in achieving better results in treatment and cure.