Mumbai : “I have learnt to love life more. Cancer taught me this. You don’t have to get cancer to start valuing life, that’s why I tell 
my story.” These words by Bollywood star Manisha Koirala resounded in the auditorium at the launch of the 7th anniversary special issue of Prevention, India’s number 1 health magazine. The event was held today at Novotel Juhu, Mumbai.
A healthy, happy Koirala who graces the 7th Anniversary cover of Prevention this April, was speaking at the event held to unveil this special issue of a magazine that has earned the moniker of being the health Bible of India. In her first formal and glamorous appearance on a magazine cover exactly one year after she beat back ovarian cancer, Koirala tells her story earnestly, instantly making a connect with the reader. “Cancer is shrouded in mystery, so people are afraid of sharing their stories. Even our films portray it that way, but I want to tell people that you can beat back cancer,” she told the audience, going on to add that her struggle has given her perspective and passion. “Now I value my time much more and try to do things that are true to my spirit and soul,” she added. She now plans to become a crusader for cancer awareness, is working towards setting up an NGO which works for cancer prevention and is also penning a book on how she conquered the fear and fatigue of the disease. Koirala was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in late 2012, a type of cancer that is difficult to diagnose and may often be diagnosed late as it does not have typical symptoms.
The event hosted an engaging discussion on Cancer Awareness, moderated by Sanghamitra Chakraborty, Editorial Director of Prevention and Women’s Health magazines, and also attended by Dr Raj Kerkar, Prof & Head, Dept of Gynaecological Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. The doc spoke about the need for greater awareness, how to recognise signs and symptoms, the need to conduct annual preventive check-ups and stay tuned in to one’s body to ensure you pick up signs and symptoms early. Both Koirala and Dr Kerkar highlighted the importance of clean foods and regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They also spoke about the need to slow down and engage in activities that help us beat stress.
By the end of the session, everyone agreed on what has been the Prevention tagline— “Take Charge of your Health”. The time is now.
Source : Lokesh Shastri