Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, felicitated 55 breast cancer warriors aged between their 30s and 80s at a special breast cancer awareness event held on Monday. The initiative celebrated the courage and resilience of these women while highlighting the importance of early detection, timely treatment and emotional support throughout the cancer journey. The event brought together breast cancer survivors to share their experiences, celebrate their progress and encourage greater awareness of a disease that remains a significant public health challenge in India.
Breast Cancer Cases Highlight the Need for Early Detection
According to estimates from the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), presented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in the Rajya Sabha in February 2026, India was projected to record 2,40,381 breast cancer cases among women in 2025, including 21,843 cases in Maharashtra. The estimated number of breast cancer-related deaths among women in India stood at 1,03,363 in 2025. These figures underscore the need to strengthen breast cancer awareness, encourage timely medical consultation and improve access to appropriate treatment. Early evaluation can help identify the disease and enable healthcare professionals to determine suitable treatment options.
Oncosurgeon Emphasises Warning Signs and Screening
Dr Meghal Sanghavi, Consultant Oncosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, emphasised that breast cancer awareness involves recognising physical changes and seeking medical advice promptly. She highlighted warning signs such as a breast lump, changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, nipple changes and unusual discharge. Women should not ignore these symptoms or delay consulting a healthcare professional. Dr Sanghavi also noted that breast cancer can develop in women without a family history of the disease. Therefore, she encouraged women to pay attention to their breast health, discuss concerns without hesitation and follow screening recommendations based on their age and individual risk.
Emotional Support Plays a Key Role in Cancer Care
Dr Virendra Chauhan, Regional Business Head – India and Group Head International Business at Wockhardt Hospitals, highlighted the emotional challenges patients face following a breast cancer diagnosis. He noted that every patient’s experience is different, often involving uncertainty, difficult decisions and the emotional demands of treatment. Through the initiative, the hospital aimed to recognise the courage of the 55 women and celebrate their journeys beyond the clinical setting. Dr Chauhan added that, alongside medical treatment, emotional support, encouragement from loved ones and compassionate healthcare services can help patients navigate their treatment journey. He expressed hope that the survivors’ stories would encourage others to seek timely medical advice, discuss breast cancer openly and recognise that no one needs to face the disease alone.
Wockhardt Hospitals Reaffirms Commitment to Patient-Centred Care
Through this initiative, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, reaffirmed its commitment to breast cancer awareness and patient-centred care. The event reinforced the importance of timely medical consultation, appropriate screening and emotional support for patients and their families. As per the press release, by celebrating the resilience of 55 breast cancer warriors, the hospital also sought to inspire others to prioritise breast health and seek medical guidance when needed. The initiative highlighted how greater awareness, timely action and compassionate care can make a meaningful difference in the breast cancer journey.