SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre marked Cancer Awareness Day 2025 with a two-day programme that blended education, creativity, and public engagement. Organised by the Department of Pathology under the leadership of Dr P. Kalaivani, the event brought together MBBS, BDS, and MLT students to deepen their understanding of cancer prevention and the importance of early diagnosis.
Day 1: Student Activities Set the Tone
The pre-CME activities on 6 November aimed to spark interest and encourage student involvement.
The day began with a rally titled March for a Cancer-Free Tomorrow, where nearly 200 students and faculty walked from the hospital entrance at E Block, carrying messages on tobacco cessation and early detection. A mime by MLT students at the end of the rally drove home the harmful effects of tobacco.
In the afternoon, the campus came alive with the rangoli competition Unite in Colours: Stand Against Cancer, featuring 44 participants from MBBS and MLT. Their artwork highlighted cancer awareness themes with impressive creativity. Shortly after, the Pathoquest quiz prelims brought 24 MBBS students together for a fast-paced round, from which the top scorers moved on to the finals.
Day 2: CME Inauguration and Scientific Sessions
The main CME was held on 7 November at Hippocrates Hall. The inauguration opened with the traditional lamp lighting, followed by addresses from Dr T. Mythili, Additional Registrar (MSL), Dr K.V. Leela, Associate Dean of UG Studies, and organising chairperson Dr P. Kalaivani. Speakers stressed the need for preventive education, early detection, and student engagement in public health initiatives.
The Smt. The Ramamirutham Prize Examination Medal was also awarded to meritorious students during the ceremony.
The scientific programme featured three focused sessions:
1. The Tobacco Endgame: Early Diagnosis, Late Realization
Dr Suresh Kumar, Consultant Medical Oncologist, discussed the rise in tobacco-related cancers and the urgent need for early screening and cessation programs. The session sparked questions on practical cessation strategies and nicotine replacement options.
2. Decoding Tobacco-Induced Cancer: Pathology Perspective
Dr Priya Subhash Chandrabose offered a detailed look at the histopathology of tobacco-related malignancies, highlighting diagnostic features and the role of pathology in bridging clinical suspicion with confirmation.
3. Beyond the Cure: Caring for the Mind in the Cancer Journey
Ms Revathy Sudhakar from Adyar Cancer Institute explored the psychological challenges faced by patients and caregivers. Her talk encouraged future clinicians to approach cancer care with empathy and a holistic outlook.
A moving highlight of the day was an inspirational talk by a cancer survivor, who shared her recovery from colon cancer and emphasised the power of early detection and a hopeful mindset.
The poster presentation saw 20 students from MBBS and BDS displaying innovative work on prevention, early detection, and lifestyle modification. Judges assessed the entries for scientific clarity, creativity, and visual impact.
The Pathoquest Quiz Finals featured the top four teams competing across three lively rounds: Rapid Fire, Image-Based Diagnosis, and a playful Dumb Charades round centred on cancer terminology. The mix of speed, interpretation, and teamwork kept the audience engaged throughout.
During the valedictory ceremony, winners of the rangoli, poster, and quiz competitions were honoured with certificates and mementoes. Distinction holders from the MBBS 2023–2024 batch were also recognised for academic excellence.
Cancer Awareness Day CME 2025 offered students a well-rounded experience that merged academic learning with social responsibility. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and compassionate care, the event stayed true to its theme: From Puff to Prognosis: Closing the Gaps in Cancer Prevention.
