Breast Cancer Awareness Program Held at Biramangol College, Imphal East
In observance of International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Department of Radiation Oncology, RIMS, in collaboration with the DHR-ICMR Advanced Molecular Oncology Diagnostic Services (DIAMOnDS) project under the Department of Pathology, RIMS Imphal, organized a one-day Breast Cancer Awareness Program at Biramangol College, Sawombung, Imphal East, on October 14, 2025.
Themed “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” the event aimed to spread awareness about breast cancer prevention, screening, and management. Around 80 participants, including faculty members, non-teaching staff, and students of Biramangol College, took part in the program.
The event began with a welcome and keynote address by Dr. A. Jibanmala Devi, Principal of Biramangol College, who emphasized the importance of awareness and preventive measures in combating breast cancer. Dr. B. Arunkumar Sharma, Nodal Officer of the Awareness Programme, RIMS Imphal, delivered the Chief Guest address, highlighting the need for early detection and active community participation in the fight against breast cancer.
The technical sessions featured a series of informative talks by distinguished speakers from RIMS. Dr. Babina Sarangthem, Professor, Department of Pathology, and Co-Principal Investigator of the DIAMOnDS Project, delivered a detailed presentation on the Diagnosis of Breast Carcinoma. She discussed the global and regional burden of the disease, diagnostic approaches, and the role of molecular techniques such as immunohistochemistry and gene profiling in accurate diagnosis. She also informed attendees about the free testing services for breast and lung cancer available under the DIAMOnDS project at RIMS.
The second session on Screening, Treatment & Management of Breast Cancer was led by Dr. Angom Ronibala, Dr. Akoijam Sunita, and Dr. Dorafiona Swer from the Department of Radiation Oncology, RIMS. Dr. Ronibala spoke on screening methods and risk factors, while Dr. Sunita discussed individualized treatment approaches based on cancer subtypes and stages. Dr. Swer emphasized the emotional and psychosocial aspects of cancer care, stressing the need for holistic support for patients.
The awareness program concluded with a strong message that “Early Detection Saves Lives.” Participants were encouraged to make use of available screening facilities and the free diagnostic services at RIMS and to spread awareness within their communities to help prevent and control breast cancer.