AmritsarS Tealathon: Running Towards a Cervical Cancer-Free Future
Amritsar witnessed a powerful display of community spirit and determination as the Phulkari Women of Amritsar (WOA) hosted the 8th annual Tealathon – Run for Cervical Cancer awareness. The event, held at Dussehra Ground, Ranjit Avenue, drew over 2,000 participants, ranging from toddlers to octogenarians, all united in the fight against cervical cancer.
A Milestone in Awareness
This year’s Tealathon marked a important milestone for phulkari WOA, representing their 150th cervical cancer awareness initiative. The event underscores the organization’s unwavering commitment to the Teal Ribbon initiative, a national campaign promoting HPV vaccination and regular screenings as crucial preventative measures.
Phulkari’s Tireless Efforts
Phulkari WOA, an all-women-run social organization, has been at the forefront of encouraging women to prioritize their cervical health. Their efforts extend beyond the annual marathon, encompassing a range of educational programs and screening camps.
tealathon was designed as an outreach activity under our Conquer Cancer campaign. Over the years, it has grown in impact, enabling us to reach more than six lakh people through our educational awareness programs.Praneet Bubber, founder, Phulkari WOA
Ms. Bubber further highlighted the tangible impact of their sustained campaigns:
Through sustained campaigns, 1,418 women from rural and urban centres have been screened for cervical cancer across 16 camps and 533 girls have been vaccinated.As one of the only preventable forms of cancer, we are committed to ensuring that the maximum number of women benefit from early intervention.Praneet bubber, Founder, Phulkari WOA
Community and Inclusivity
The Tealathon aimed to unite people from all walks of life, emphasizing the importance of proactive health management. The event saw participation from diverse individuals, including Gurjeet aujla, a Congress Member of Parliament from Amritsar, and professional marathoners from Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.
Adding a heartwarming dimension to the event,34 children with special needs from Ibadat School (for the differently abled) and Karampura School of Eminence also participated. These institutions are actively involved in the Phulkari Learning Program, showcasing the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
The Core Message: Prevention and Early Detection
The message of the Tealathon was clear: prevention and early detection are paramount in the fight against cervical cancer.
Two key words—prevention and early detection—are at the heart of our mission. Cervical cancer is a serious health issue that affects women across all age groups.Minakshi Khanna, President, Phulkari
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
How can cervical cancer be prevented?
Cervical cancer can be prevented through HPV vaccination and regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests.
What is the Teal ribbon initiative?
The Teal Ribbon initiative is a national campaign focused on raising awareness about cervical cancer and promoting prevention through vaccination and screening.
What is Phulkari WOA?
Phulkari WOA is an all-women-run social organization dedicated to encouraging women to prioritize their cervical health and providing access to necessary screenings and vaccinations.
