GART Marks World Lung Cancer Day with WRAD Community Awareness Programme in Varanasi
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More than 60 people from underserved communities took part in an educational programme focused on lung cancer, early diagnosis and the role of radiotherapy.
Bringing the WRAD message into the community
The Global Association of Radiation Therapists (GART) marked World Lung Cancer Day by delivering a community awareness programme at Nakki Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, on 1 August 2026.
Organised in collaboration with Vriddha Mitra, a flagship programme of SCHOOL (Society of Community Health Oriented Operational Links), the initiative supported the World Radiotherapy Awareness Day (WRAD) mission to improve public understanding of cancer care and amplify “One Voice for Radiotherapy.”
The activity was shared by WRAD Regional Champion for India, Subrata Roy, as part of GART’s continuing commitment to translating WRAD’s global objectives into meaningful community-based education across India.
Raising awareness of lung cancer
The educational session introduced participants to the early signs and symptoms of lung cancer, its major risk factors and the importance of seeking timely medical advice.
Participants were encouraged not to delay seeking medical attention when experiencing concerning symptoms. They also received information about regional facilities offering cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment.
Improving understanding of radiotherapy
A central part of the programme focused on the important role of radiotherapy in modern cancer care. Participants learned that approximately one in every two people diagnosed with cancer will require radiotherapy at some point during their treatment.
The session explained how modern radiotherapy technologies can precisely target cancerous tissue while limiting radiation exposure to surrounding healthy organs. Its different roles in curing cancer, controlling disease, relieving symptoms and improving quality of life were also discussed.
By addressing common myths and misconceptions about radiation treatment, the programme aimed to reduce fear and help people make better-informed decisions about their care.
Cancer Awareness Kits containing clear, accessible educational materials were distributed to all participants. These resources will enable attendees to share accurate information with their families and wider communities, extending the programme’s impact beyond the event itself.
Collaboration supporting greater access to information
The awareness programme was delivered by Dr Rajiv Kumar Singh and Mr Kamal Kaushik, representing GART, together with Mr Vaibhav, representing SCHOOL. Throughout the session, they engaged directly with participants and answered questions about lung cancer and its treatment.
The initiative demonstrates how collaboration between professional organisations, community programmes and WRAD Regional Champions can bring reliable cancer information to people who may otherwise have limited access to it.
Through its continuing collaboration with WRAD, GART plans to expand these community initiatives and help the message of “One Voice for Radiotherapy” reach more underserved communities across India.
Help raise awareness in your community. Explore the WRAD campaign resources and share your WRAD activity on our website.
