Pune, April 2022: The Don Bosco Development Society (DBDS), Pune organized four awareness session on physical and mental health, Cancer, COVID-19 Vaccination and Arogya Setu APP under the aegis of ‘Health Care and Sustainable Environment Project’ supported by AXA Business Services. 92 women participated in these awareness sessions

Four health awareness sessions were held this month. 92 women were educated on physical and mental health, Cancer, COVID-19 Vaccination and Arogya Setu AAP. The objective of the programme was to educate women on health, hygiene and health risk behaviour. The details of sessions conducted is as follows:

First session was held on 13^th April 2022 at Durga Nagar slum for 25 women. Mrs. Akashada Naik and Mrs. Sarika Kadam were the resource persons. Second session was held on 22^nd April 2022 in Khadi Machine slum for 18 women. Mrs. Akshada Naik was the resource person. Third session was held on 22^nd April 2022 in Kawade Wadi slum for 29 women. Mrs. Poonam Wasvani was the resource person. Fourth session was held on 25^th April 2022 in Gandhi Nagar slum for 20 women. Mrs. Namita Pathak was the resource person.

In these sessions following topics were covered by the resource persons:

· Vaccination of COVID-19

· Personal Hygiene

· Symptoms and Treatment of Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer

· Symptoms and Treatment of Oral Cancer and Lung Cancer

· Testing, screening and treatment of Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer

Early detection of any Cancer is essential in its management and treatment. Due to ignorance, fear, and social stigma many women ignore it till stage III or IV is reached which requires surgery and extensive treatment. If detected early, then in most cases there will be less aggressive treatment and better chances of recovery. Cervical Cancer is the second most common cancer among women in India. It is the only preventable cancer and it can be detected in the pre - cancerous phase and cured. Following suggestions were given by the resource person:

· Do not smoke or chew tobacco

· Limit alcohol consumption

· Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and grains

· Do not be overweight

· Lead an active life and exercise

After the sessions Hand wash soap was distributed to Participants.