AIIA observes World Cancer Day 2026 with awareness and academic initiatives

New Delhi: The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, observed World Cancer Day 2026 with a series of awareness-oriented and academic activities organised by the Centre for Integrative Oncology (CIO). The observance highlighted the institute’s continued commitment to cancer prevention, early detection, and integrative cancer care through Ayurveda.

The programme began on February 3, 2026 with student-focused activities, including a Slogan Competition and an Essay Writing Competition. These initiatives aimed to foster creative engagement among students and sensitize young minds to the importance of cancer awareness, prevention, and holistic healthcare approaches.

The main event was held on February 4, 2026 and was attended by eminent academicians, clinicians, researchers, faculty members, and students.

The morning session focused on patient sensitisation and awareness. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Pradeepkumar Prajapati, Director, AIIA; Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, Medical Superintendent, AIIA Hospital; Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala, Dean, FAUM, DU; Prof. (Dr.) Ramakant Yadav, Dean (PG), along with Dr. Pramod Yadav, Dr. Amrish Dedge, and Dr. Meeta Jhala. The dignitaries emphasised the rising burden of cancer and highlighted the role of Ayurveda-based integrative oncology in cancer prevention, supportive care, and survivorship.

As part of patient outreach activities, awareness talks were conducted in the hospital OPD premises. Faculty members, PhD scholars, and postgraduate students educated patients and attendants on early warning signs of cancer, lifestyle-related risk factors, and the importance of preventive measures and supportive care through Ayurveda.

The afternoon session featured expert academic deliberations. The session opened with addresses by Prof. (Dr.) Yogesh Badwe, Prof. (Dr.) Manjusha Rajagopala, and Prof. (Dr.) Ramakant Yadav. A detailed report on CIO activities undertaken during 2025 was presented by Dr. Amrish Dedge, highlighting the Centre’s work in integrative cancer care, research initiatives, patient services, and awareness programmes.

The dignitaries subsequently released the CIO Information Brochure, aimed at disseminating information on Ayurveda-based integrative oncology services available at AIIA.

The highlight of the session was an expert guest lecture by Dr. Ashok Patel, Associate Professor, Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, who spoke on the molecular understanding of cancer, fundamentals of cancer genomics, and the scope of interdisciplinary approaches in oncology research and healthcare.

Dr. Patel was felicitated for his contribution, and prizes were awarded to the winners of the Slogan and Essay Competitions. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Pramod Yadav.

Tags : Ayurveda, AIIA, World Cancer Day, Oncology, New Delhi