Arive Shakthi: M.I.O. and Sanjeevini Take Cancer Awareness Through the Streets of Kumta

Knowledge Is Power: Taking the Message to Coastal Karnataka

Expanding its proactive healthcare initiatives beyond Mangalore, Udupi, and Thirthahalli, Mangalore Institute of Oncology (M.I.O) and Sanjeevini Cancer Seva Trust (R.) successfully orchestrated a high-impact Cancer Awareness Rally in Kumta. Held on February 27, 2026, the campaign was aptly titled "Arive Shakthi" (Knowledge is Power) and was designed to empower the coastal community with life-saving information on early cancer detection.

Taking to the Streets: The Awareness March

The rally commenced at 2:30 PM, starting from the premises of the Sri Shantika Parameshwari Temple in Devarahakkalu, Kumta. The march was officially flagged off by Dr. Ashok Bhat Halakar, a respected Family Physician from Halakar Nursing Home, Kumta. Walking through the main roads of the city, M.I.O volunteers and staff carried placards and engaged with locals to break the silence surrounding cancer. The energetic procession culminated at M.I.O's newly established Cancer Information Centre, located at Shop No. 7, Srinivas Complex, near Gibbs Circle on N.H. 66.

"Arive Shakthi": A Community United for Health

Following the rally, a comprehensive cancer survey and dialogue programme was conducted to address the public's concerns and outline preventive measures. This vital community session brought together esteemed medical professionals and local leaders, including:

• Dr. D Suresh Rao, Managing Trustee, Sanjeevini Cancer Seva Trust, Mangalore
• Dr. Ashok Bhat Halakar, Family Physician, Halakar Nursing Home, Kumta
• Mr. Krishna Baba Pai, Managing Trustee, Sri Shantika Parameshwari Temple, Devarahakkalu, Kumta
• Mr. Kiran K Nayak, President, Rotary Club Kumta
• Mr. Nikhil Kshetrapal, Secretary, Rotary Club Kumta
• Dr. Vageesh Bhat, Former President, IMA Uttara Kannada

Expert Insights: Turning Awareness into Action

A key component of the "Arive Shakthi" dialogue was led by Smt. Jestalaxmi Boloor, Psychologist and Cancer Awareness Programme Coordinator at M.I.O. She anchored the conversation around the psychological resilience required when facing cancer and the sheer power of awareness. Her insights focused on:

• Early Diagnosis: Empowering individuals to recognise persistent symptoms early, which is the most critical factor in achieving high cure rates.
• Community Surveys: Emphasising the importance of community health mapping to identify local risk factors and guide future medical support.
• Breaking the Stigma: Educating families on how to provide the right emotional and psychological support to those undergoing treatment.

Education Is Our Most Powerful Medicine

As a leading cancer care hospital serving the Mangalore, Udupi, and Thirthahalli regions, M.I.O remains deeply committed to community-based prevention. Through grassroots initiatives like the Kumta rally, we continue to reaffirm that education and awareness are our most powerful medicines in the fight against cancer. 📞 Cancer Helpline: 8050636777 📍 Mangalore | Udupi | Thirthahalli #MIOCares

Mangalore Institute of Oncology — At the forefront of cancer care.