SRINAGAR: To create awareness around increasing incidences of breast cancer in Jammu & Kashmir, Fortis Hospital, Gurugram today organized an awareness programme in Srinagar’s Dal Lake. Around 150 Shikaras were tied up with pink ribbons in the Dal Lake, 2000 pink balloons were flown in the air, Local Kashmiri folk dance by local artists were performed on traditional Kashmiri music, the tourists were given free Shikara rides in the Dal Lake.
The event began with a Press Briefing by Dr. Bilal Mohiud Din Bhat (IAS) Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar who was also the Chief Guest for the occasion, Dr Ankur Bahl (Senior Director, Medical Oncology, Fortis Gurugram), Dr Farah Farooq (Centre Manager, Fortis Medical Centre, Srinagar), Dr Ritu Garg (Chief Innovation and Growth Officer, Fortis Healthcare), Mahipal Singh Bhanot (SBU Head, Fortis Gurugram) and Yash Rawat (Facility Director, Fortis Gurugram). Other Senior Dignitaries including Dr Khalid Hussain Malik (Additional DC, Srinagar) Dr Syed Ghazala Nazki, State Programme Manager, National Health Mission, J & K, Dr Baldev Prakash (MD & CEO – J&K Bank), Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Chaya (CMD & Founder, Mushtaq Group of Hotels), Mr. Rashid Yahya Naqash, Regional Wildlife Warden, Headquarters J&K were present at the event.
Dr. Bilal Mohiud Din Bhat (IAS) Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar said: “I Congratulate Fortis Gurugram on this initiative as it highlights the urgency of combating breast cancer and uniting the community of Srinagar to raise awareness about breast cancer by sending a message of hope, survival, and courage to those who have bravely fought the disease. Together, we need to educate, empower, and inspire hope and save the lives lost to breast cancer”.
Dr. Ankur Bahl, Senior Director, Medical Oncology, Fortis Gurugram said, “As per official data, an average of two patients lose the battle to breast cancer daily. Early detection is crucial for achieving a high cure rate, with over 90% success at five years if diagnosed early. Unfortunately, 60% of women are diagnosed at an advanced stage due to lack of awareness of early signs and symptoms, unavailability of screening, ignorance of personal health and fear of treatment.”
Dr Ritu Garg, Chief Innovation & Marketing Officer, Fortis Healthcare said, “As per the World Health Organization, breast cancer continues to be the leading form of cancer in Indian women. Breast cancer has assumed alarming proportions in Jammu and Kashmir with the latest statistics revealing both rising incidence of cases amongst women in the Union Territory. Through this event, it is our endeavor to continuously educate the women about the importance of regular screening, self-examination and empower them to take charge of their health.”
Yashpal Rawat, Facility Director, Fortis Gurugram said, “There’s a significant rise in breast cancer cases in Jammu and Kashmir, often associated with genetic factors and familial history. As per records, 9321 women tested positive for breast cancer in J&K during 2019-2023. A lack of timely diagnosis, and access to quality treatment is also leading to a higher number of deaths annually. It’s important to know the risk factors and adopt a healthy lifestyle. The goal of this event is to educate women about the importance of diagnosing cancer at early stages when treatment is easier and outcomes are better. By following preventive guidelines, and being better informed about cancer, women can significantly reduce their health risk and enjoy a healthy and happy life.”

KR Desk