“Your Health is your Wealth — Protect it with Knowledge and Action.”
October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing awareness and promoting early detection of the disease. In support of this global initiative, the Kuwait Canara Welfare Association (KCWA) organized a Breast Cancer Awareness Program on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 6:45 PM via Zoom.
The primary objective of the campaign was to raise awareness about breast cancer, emphasize the importance of early detection through regular screening, and educate the community on prevention strategies, treatment options, and the support systems available for both patients and survivors.
The session began with a warm introduction by KCWA General Secretary, Reena Pereira, who introduced the resource person for the evening, Dr. Elroy Saldanha. The opening prayer was led by Education Fund Coordinator, Veena Serrao.
KCWA President, Prakash Pinto, extended a heartfelt welcome to all attendees, followed by a keynote address by Dr. Elroy Saldanha, Consultant Surgical Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon at Fr. Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangalore.
Dr. Saldanha, a highly accomplished surgeon, holds the following credentials: MS, MCh, PDCC (Robotic Surgery – Vattikuti Foundation), FACS (Fellow of the American College of Surgeons), FIAGES, FMAS, EFIAGES, PDCR. He completed his MCh in Surgical Oncology at Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences, Indore, and is the first trained Robotic Surgical Oncologist in Coastal Karnataka under the Vattikuti Foundation, Southfield, Michigan USA, having served in Manipal and Aster Hospitals, Bangalore. His fellowship included advanced training at the Cleveland Clinic, Ohio (Colorectal Unit), and New York Langone Hospital (Thoracic Oncology).
Dr. Elroy Saldanha specializes in endoscopy, minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic (key-hole) and robotic surgeries, and oncoplastic and HIPEC/PIPAC surgeries for peritoneal surface malignancies. In October 2024, he was honored as a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Surgeons in San Francisco, USA. Dr. Elroy Saldanha is Son of Mr. Elias Saldanha, founder President of KCWA.
During the awareness session, Dr. Elroy Saldanha addressed crucial topics including:
- The importance of early detection
- Risk factors and preventive measures
- The role of diet and lifestyle
- Mental health support during treatment and recovery
The session also featured an emotional and inspiring testimonials from breast cancer survivor, who shared their journeys of resilience, the strength found in community support, and the life-saving importance of regular health check-ups.
A Q&A session followed, during which Dr. Elroy Saldanha answered all the questions submitted by participants, offering insightful and compassionate responses.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Asst. General Secretary, Vinitha Pinto, who expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and organizers. The Zoom platform was seamlessly managed by Website Administrator, Nilton Dsouza, whose technical skills ensured a smooth virtual experience for all attendees. The entire event was efficiently coordinated by Vinitha Pinto, Reena Pereira, and Nilton Dsouza, whose collaborative efforts contributed to its overall success.
The Breast Cancer Awareness Program was a successful and impactful initiative that brought the community together, delivered essential health education, and emphasized the importance of proactive and preventive health care.