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Cancer Prevention Awareness Lights Up Vadodara Railway Station

Joint initiative of Sterling Hospitals and Western Railway Vadodara Division for cancer prevention on the occasion of World Cancer Day

On the occasion of World Cancer Day, a unique initiative was taken by Divisional Railway Hospital, Western Railway, Vadodara and Sterling Hospital, Bhayli, to spread awareness about cancer prevention in the city. On this occasion, Vadodara Railway Station was illuminated with pink lights and important messages on cancer prevention were displayed.

World Cancer Day is observed every year on 4 February and is supported by health bodies across the world. The day focuses on prevention, early detection and proper care. According to global health studies, many common cancers can be prevented by simple lifestyle changes such as avoiding tobacco, eating healthy food and staying physically active. Lighting public places on this day has become a recognised way to draw attention and start conversations among people who may not usually engage with health campaigns.

The main objective of this initiative was to create awareness among the common citizens about cancer prevention and highlight the importance of timely screening, healthy lifestyle and proper treatment. Since thousands of people visit the railway station every day for commuting, an attempt was made to reach every section of society through such awareness initiatives.

Railway stations are among the busiest public spaces in India. Health experts often recommend using such places for public health messaging because they bring together people of all ages and backgrounds. Studies show that when health information is shared in daily-life locations, people are more likely to notice and remember it. Messages about screening are especially important because early-stage cancer is often easier to treat and has better recovery chances.

Talking about this initiative, Mr Santosh Marathe, MD and CEO, Sterling Hospitals, said, “ Our commitment to cancer care is not limited to treatment alone. Sterling Hospitals is operating in major cities of Gujarat with state-of-the-art cancer treatment facilities. Through this initiative of lighting up the railway station in collaboration with Western Railway Vadodara Division, we are trying to spread awareness about cancer prevention to every citizen.”

Medical experts agree that hospitals have a wider role beyond treating patients. Many international health systems encourage hospitals to take part in community education. Cancer prevention programmes led by hospitals help people understand symptoms early, reduce fear and correct myths. Awareness also helps families seek medical advice without delay, which can save lives.

DRM of Western Railway Vadodara Division Shri Raju Bhadke said, “ By undertaking such awareness initiatives at public places like railway stations, important health messages reach a large number of people. Awareness is very important to prevent serious diseases like cancer, and this initiative will prove to be an effective means for that.”

Public authorities play a key role in health promotion. Railways in several countries have supported health campaigns related to vaccination, hygiene and disease prevention. When government bodies support such efforts, the message gains trust among citizens. Experts note that repeated exposure to health messages in trusted public spaces helps change long-term behaviour.

Dr Deepali Tiwari, CMS of Railway Hospital, Vadodara, said, “Timely information, a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups are essential for cancer prevention. This effort, in collaboration with Sterling Hospital,s will inspire people towards a healthy life.”

Doctors often stress that prevention starts with awareness. Simple steps such as regular health check-ups, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding excess alcohol and managing stress can lower cancer risk. Medical research shows that people who undergo regular screening have a higher chance of detecting cancer early, even before symptoms appear.

Regarding this programme, Dr Vibha Nayak, Director and Medical Oncologist at Sterling Hospitals, said, “ Awareness is the biggest weapon in the fight against cancer. Through such various initiatives, we are committed to reducing the fear of cancer among the people by providing them with accurate information and giving them a positive message.”

Fear and misinformation remain major barriers in cancer care. Health studies show that many patients delay treatment due to fear or lack of correct knowledge. Awareness drives led by doctors help replace fear with facts. When people understand that many cancers are treatable if detected early, they are more likely to seek help in time.

Sterling Hospitals, Bhayli, Vadodara, is continuously working to provide quality healthcare services and advanced cancer care facilities. Through such awareness initiatives, the hospital is continuously fulfilling its commitment to improving the health of society and the better lives of its citizens.

Across India, healthcare institutions are increasing their focus on prevention and community engagement. Experts believe that combining medical expertise with public awareness can reduce the overall cancer burden. Initiatives like this not only spread information but also remind citizens that cancer prevention is a shared responsibility between individuals, healthcare providers and public institutions.