Thiruvananthapuram: The “Preventive Cancer Summit,” a collaborative endeavor led by several organizations, including the Swasti Foundation, dedicated to cancer research in Kerala and in partnership with international cancer experts, was officially inaugurated by Governor Arif Mohammad Khan. The summit marked an important milestone in advancing the Cancer Safe Kerala project, a far-reaching initiative aimed at providing cancer screening to the entire population of Kerala.
The 3-day conference, hosted at Hotel Fort Manor in Thiruvananthapuram, was inaugurated by Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, who commended the Swasti Foundation for their commendable efforts in conducting cancer awareness programs, supporting cancer patients and their families, and actively engaging in environmental protection initiatives.
The conference featured two esteemed foreign experts, with special recognition given to Dr. MV Pillai, renowned for his exceptional knowledge in Oncology and his contributions to promoting Malayalam, his mother tongue, even in the United States.
Dr. AM Balayev, Director of the Petrov Oncology Center in Russia, delivered the keynote address. Dr. Mohanan Kunummel, Vice Chancellor of Arogya University, outlined the purpose and activities of the summit, followed by Dr. MV Pillai, a distinguished Medical Oncologist from Thomas Jefferson University, who delivered an impactful keynote speech.
The event witnessed the presence of notable figures, including TKA Nair, Former Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister of India, Jiji Thomson, Former Chief Secretary and Member of the Advisory Committee of the Swasti Foundation, Baby Mathew Somateeram, Chairman of Somateeram Ayurveda Group and Advisory Committee Member of the Swasti Foundation, S Gopinath IPS, a Trustee of the Swasti Foundation, and several other dignitaries.
The closing session of the summit, scheduled for 29th at 6 pm, will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. On this occasion, the Chief Minister will unveil the “Cancer Safe Kerala” initiative, a landmark endeavour aimed at furthering cancer prevention and care. Health Minister Veena George will deliver the keynote address.
