Cancer Screening, Meppadi, Wayanad Landslide Survivors, Kerala
October 13, 2024: Cancer Screening, Meppadi, Wayanad Landslide Survivors, Kerala: A cancer detection camp was held on October 13, 2024, at Meppadi in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The initiative was organized by Breast Cancer Hub and Malabar Cancer Care Society (MCCS), Kannur, in collaboration with Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Women’s Wing, Kerala, with a special focus on providing awareness and cancer screening to the victims and survivors of the Meppadi landslide that occurred in July 2024. The disaster was one of the deadliest in Kerala's history, with reports of 254 fatalities, 397 injuries, and 118 people missing. Ten thousand people were displaced, and the affected people require whatever support we can offer. The MCCS Team, with the support of BCH, was instrumental in offering medical support, and a camp was organized, which all of them highly appreciated as a sign of relief in dire need.
Hats off and a huge shout-out to the dedicated MCCS team for helping to execute; this screening would not have been possible without your support.
81 individuals attended the cancer screening camp held at Meppadi Higher Secondary School. Out of these, 35 participants availed cervical cancer screening, while 75 attendees underwent breast cancer screening and were also educated on breast self-examination techniques. Additionally, 22 individuals received oral cancer screening at the campsite. 132 services were provided for the needy on the day of the camp. The medical team from Malabar Cancer Care Society (MCCS), consisting of eight dedicated members, commenced their journey at 6:00 AM from the MCCS office, ensuring timely arrival despite a travel time of over four hours to the remote camp location.
The devastating landslide affected thousands of residents in the locality, leaving many in vulnerable living conditions. In response to the increased health risks following the disaster, the camp was organized to provide early cancer screening and raise awareness about preventive healthcare, especially among women and children.
The camp witnessed active participation from the local community and was supported by a team of medical professionals, volunteers, and health workers dedicated to ensuring follow-up care for identified cases
The cancer screening camp held at Meppadi Higher Secondary School was inaugurated by Meppadi Grama Panchayath Vice President, Ms. Radha Ramaswami. The presidential address was delivered by Mrs. Safiya Ali, who emphasized the importance of timely health interventions in disaster-affected areas. The event was graced by Mr. D. Krishnanadha Pai, Founder and President of the Malabar Cancer Care Society (MCCS), as the Guest of Honour. Felicitations were offered by Ward Member Ms. Ramla Hamsa, Block Panchayath Member Ms. T.K. Naseema, and Dr. Harsha Gangadharan, Medical Officer at MCCS. A highly detailed and informative awareness session was conducted by Dr. V.C. Ravindran, Medical Director of MCCS, focusing on early detectable cancers. His session was well-received and attentively followed by the audience, reflecting the community’s growing awareness and concern for preventive healthcare.
With heartfelt gratitude
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