On the eve of breast cancer awareness month, Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai has presented the India’s first ‘Automated Breast Volume Scanner’ (ABVS). The ABVS helps to acquire, analyse and report on detailed sonographic volumes of intricate breast anatomy and pathology.

In association with the Estée Lauder Companies’ breast cancer awareness campaign’s global landmarks illumination initiative, Jaslok Hospital has lighted up part of the hospital pink.   Pink serves as symbol of hope and empowerment, the illuminations aim to spread the life-saving message of early detection in an exciting and dramatic way.

The Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign’s landmarks illumination initiative unites worldwide monuments and landmarks to shine pink - calling attention to the importance of breast health and early detection. Jaslok hospital joins an illustrious league of international landmarks that are part of the global tradition, like the Empire State Building (New York, USA), Sydney Opera House (Sydney, Australia), Louvre Museum (Paris, France), Burj Al-Arab (Dubai, UAE), Beijing Olympic Pool (Beijing, China), Tokyo Tower (Tokyo, Japan), Bandra-Worli Sea Link (Mumbai), Taj Mahal Palace Hotel (Mumbai), among many others.

On this occasion, Jaslok Hospital announced a FREE women’s cancer screening camp till the end of October which is internationally recognised as breast cancer month.

This initiative was supported by Women's Cancer Initiative - Tata Memorial Hospital, which focuses on alleviating the physical, emotional and financial suffering associated with cancers in women. It aims to aid R&D, hold annual international conferences, increase awareness and raise funds.

Dr S H Advani, director medical oncology, Jaslok Hospital said, “Breast Cancer is seeing an alarming rise in our country. An estimated 2.2 lakh women are expected to be diagnosed with Breast Cancer this year. In Mumbai and Delhi alone, there are 25 – 30 new cases per one lakh women each year and emphasized the fact that Screening is the only way of prevention.”

Dr (Col.) R R Pulgaonkar, CEO, Jaslok Hospital, said, “We are happy to have acquired this scanner which provides a 3D detail of the whole breast relatively swiftly which was not possible before. It will also benefit patients with minimal compression during examinations, allowing them breathe comfortably with a less stressful experience.”

Dr Mukund Joshi, senior radiologist, Jaslok Hospital, elaborated on the positives about “Automated Breast Volume Scanner” breakthrough technology. Breast density can be a critical factor in breast cancer detection. Joshi said, “The ABVS is the most advanced, state-of-the-art Breast Cancer diagnostic equipment – a painless alternative to mammography. It also allows a more detailed and clearer image as a follow-up to a conventional mammogram.”

Devieka Bhojwani, founder member of Women's Cancer Initiative stressed on the importance of awareness and early detection as the only way to battle cancers in women. She added that it is important for all women to understand that they must focus on looking after their health first and then look after their families, as women are the pillars of society.

Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre has a complete oncology setup to treat cancer cases including breast cancer effectively. The hospital boasts a team of highly experienced medical professionals such as, Medical Oncologists, Onco-surgeons, Radiation Oncologists, as well as specialise cancer counsellors and medical social workers. For radiation treatment, newer technologies like 3D CRT (Conformal Radiotherapy), IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy) IGRT (Image Guided Radiotherapy)are available.