Sociology-Economics Forum Events

In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Sociology Economics Forum, in collaboration with Janapriya Multi Speciality Hospital, hosted a unique and impactful awareness program aimed at the female staff of the college. A total of 38 female staff members participated in the event. The event, held on March 8, 2025, underscored the importance of gynecologic health, with a strong emphasis on cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection.

The program commenced on a serene note with a prayer led by Mr. Niketh and Mr. Roshan from the Department of Criminology and Forensic Science. Following this, the inauguration was conducted in a symbolic and eco-friendly manner—by watering a plant—by the dignitaries on the dais, alongside the chief guest and resource person, Dr. Fathima Ismath, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Janapriya Multispecialty Hospital, Padil.

Assoc. Prof. Cecilia F. Goveas, Controller of Examinations and president of the program, delivered the presidential address. She commended the organizers for the initiative and stressed the growing need for awareness about gynecologic health among women.

Dr. Kiran Prasad, coordinator of the Sociology Economics Forum, introduced the day’s esteemed resource person, Dr. Fathima Ismath, who then took over the session titled “Gynecologic Health: Awareness, Prevention & Early Diagnosis.”

Dr. Ismath’s session delved deeply into the pressing issue of gynecological cancers, which include cancers of the breast, ovaries, uterus, cervix, and vulva. She emphasized the critical role that awareness and early detection play in improving survival rates and reducing mortality.

She explained that while some risk factors—such as age, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), and reproductive history—are beyond an individual’s control, others are modifiable through lifestyle changes. Women who begin menstruation early or reach menopause late, those with dense breast tissue, and those exposed to radiation therapy in early life are at a higher risk and should be especially cautious.

Dr. Ismath highlighted that lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, and being physically active can significantly reduce cancer risk. She also spoke about the influence of hormonal treatments and reproductive patterns, stating that delayed pregnancies, not breastfeeding, and not having full-term pregnancies can elevate the risk of breast cancer.

Moreover, she pointed out newer risk factors such as the impact of working night shifts, which can disrupt hormonal balance and increase susceptibility to cancer.
On the topic of cancer detection, Dr. Ismath emphasized the importance of mammography, calling it the gold standard for early breast cancer screening. She encouraged women—especially those aged 40 and above or with a family history of cancer—to undergo regular mammograms, which can detect tumors early and improve treatment outcomes.

Concluding her address, Dr. Ismath reiterated the importance of awareness and proactive healthcare in combating gynecologic cancers. “Understanding personal risk and adhering to regular screenings like mammograms can go a long way in safeguarding women’s health,” she said.

The event ended with a vote of thanks proposed by Assistant Professor Aneez Rahaman C.P. of the Department of Criminology. A group photograph was taken with all participants, marking a successful conclusion to a meaningful Women’s Day celebration.