Camp Reports Preventive Oncology TMH
Camp Date: 13th to 16th November, 2025
Camp Venue: Sports Complex BKL Walawalkar Rural Medical College and Hospital
A four-day Health Awareness and Screening Camp was conducted at the Sports Complex of BKL Walawalkar Rural Medical College and Hospital (BKLWRMCH) from 13th to 16th November 2025, coinciding with the School Athletic State Level Competition and the Interzone Athletic Meet (University Level). The event brought together athletes and visitors from across Maharashtra and served as a strong platform for community health promotion. The camp was a joint collaborative initiative between Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) and BKL Walawalkar Rural Medical College & Hospital, aimed at advancing preventive health among young sportspersons.
During the School Athletic State Level Competition held on 13th and 14th November, around 180 athletes, coaches, and parents underwent health screening, while nearly 450 individuals were reached through Tobacco Cessation Awareness sessions. Fifteen tobacco users were identified, and two individuals who screened positive were referred to BKL Walawalkar Hospital for further evaluation. On 15th and 16th November, during the Interzone Athletic Meet, approximately 120 beneficiaries were screened, and tobacco awareness activities covered nearly 300 individuals. Three tobacco users were identified and counselled during this phase. Across all four days, the camp reinforced early detection, health education, and preventive practices among the sporting community.
The camp was organised by Dr. Vaibhav Chandra, Senior Resident, Tata Memorial Hospital, under the guidance of Dr. Pankaj Kumar (Assistant Professor, BKLWRMCH) and Dr. Sharmila Pimpale (HOD, Preventive Oncology, TMH). The program was conducted with the permission and support of Dr. Gajanan D. Velhal (HOD, Department of Community Medicine, BKLWRMCH) and Mr. Paradkar (Sports In-Charge, BKLWRMCH). Continuous guidance from Dr. Gajanan D. Velhal Sir contributed significantly to the successful execution of the camp. The initiative also received strong institutional support from Dr. Suvarna Patil, Medical Director, BKLWRMCH.
The dedicated efforts of interns Dr. Harshal Pawara, Dr. Rita Pawara, Dr. Shruti Patil, and Dr. Malvika Patil were invaluable to the smooth functioning of the camp. The activities were further supported through the RHTC team, including Sister Mrunal, social worker Ms. Amita Rahate, and the enthusiastic student nurses who actively participated in screening and awareness sessions.
This collaborative effort between TMH and BKLWRMCH stands as a testament to the impact that coordinated public health initiatives can create. The camp successfully blended healthcare with sports, promoting wellness, early detection, and tobacco-free living, and emerged as a significant public health contribution to the youth of Maharashtra
