Ancient Kerala mural arts used for spreading breast cancer awareness

CHENNAI: Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) has launched ArtCan, a unique initiative which uses art as a medium to spread awareness on breast cancer.
ACC joined hands with mural artists and survivors to curate art that educates and empowers every woman about the importance of regular self-breast examination.
The eight steps of self-breast examination were depicted through ancient Kerala mural arts to draw attention to the issue of breast cancer. Each frame reflected the story of a woman who discovered the condition while performing a self-breast examination, acted on time and defeated cancer. These eight steps have also been depicted in a book format called ‘Chitra Sutra’.
The mural arts were unveiled at Hotel Rain Tree in Chennai on October 31. The initiative was inaugurated by actor Prayaga Martin, the chief guest, in presence of Tanya Mallavarapu Reddy, founder, Mallavarapu Studio; Dr Rathna Devi, consultant, radiation oncologist; artist Adarsh, breast cancer experts, and winners.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Rathna Devi, consultant, radiation oncologist, said, “More than 20 lakh cases of breast cancer have been witnessed so far this year. Understanding and getting tested for cancer at the right time can make a difference in saving a life. This initiative will convey our message to the masses to be cautious of breast cancer and understand the symptoms to get tested at an early stage.”
A cancer winner shared her thoughts on the initiative. “As a survivor myself, in line with this initiative of ArtCan, I encourage women all around India to get regularly tested for breast cancer. The early detection not only increases the chances of survival but can be treated in the best way possible without complications,” she said.