By Tripura24 News Desk | Agartala Wednesday, February 4, 2026
AGARTALA: To mark World Cancer Day 2026, a massive awareness rally was organized in the capital city today, spearheaded by major state hospitals and the health department. The rally, which commenced from the front of Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, saw a sea of participants, including doctors, nursing students, cancer survivors, and social activists, all united in the fight against the deadly disease.
Rally for Hope and Awareness
The colorful procession was flagged off early this morning by senior health officials and medical superintendents. Participants marched through the main thoroughfares of Agartala, carrying placards and banners with slogans such as “Early Detection Saves Lives” and “Close the Care Gap.”
The rally aimed to sensitize the public about the rising incidence of cancer in the Northeast and the critical importance of regular screenings. Similar programs were also initiated by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Cancer Centre (ABV RCC) and other private healthcare institutions like ILS Hospitals, emphasizing a collective front against the malady.
Theme of 2026: “United by Unique”
This year, World Cancer Day is being observed under the global theme “United by Unique” (part of the 2025–2027 campaign). Health experts at the event explained that while cancer is a shared global challenge, every patient’s journey—biologically, emotionally, and socially—is unique.
- Personalized Care: The focus has shifted toward “people-centred care,” where treatment is tailored to individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Breaking the Stigma: Speakers at the Rabindra Bhavan gathering urged the community to stop isolating cancer patients and instead provide a supportive environment that fosters mental strength.
Key Highlights of the Day:
- Free Screening Camps: Several hospitals in Agartala announced week-long free or subsidized screening camps for breast, cervical, and oral cancers.
- Focus on Prevention: During the briefing, doctors highlighted that nearly 40% of cancer cases are preventable through lifestyle changes, such as quitting tobacco, reducing alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy diet.
- Infrastructure Boost: Mention was made of the state’s recent advancements in cancer care, including the expansion of day-care chemotherapy units in various districts and the introduction of advanced radiation therapy.
A Call to Action
Addressing the gathering, senior oncologists noted that Tripura, like the rest of the Northeast, faces a high burden of tobacco-related cancers. They appealed to the youth to stay away from addictive substances and urged every citizen above the age of 40 to undergo an annual health check-up.
The rally concluded back at the hospital premises, where a short street play (Nukkad Natak) was performed by students to illustrate the importance of identifying early warning signs like persistent lumps or unexplained weight loss.
