Bengal Oncology Foundation hosts panel discussion in Kolkata

The evening brought together leaders in psychosocial oncology to discuss the theme “Integrating Psycho-Oncology into Mainstream Cancer Care”, a mix of workshops and educational sessions.

The invited speakers were renowned surgical oncologist Gautam Mukhopadhyay, consultant counsellor Kasturi Mukherjee, alter therapist Amita Dutta (Director of Performing Art Therapy Centre, Rabindra Bharati University) and team “Aanubrato Bhalo Acho?”, a film to tell the struggle of other half fight in cancer fight. Director Partha Sen, actor Swastika Mukherjee and Deblina Dutta were present to share their reel live experiences while shooting for the film which is slated to release on Aug 7.

The panel discussion explored that psychological treatment for cancer a patient is as important as medical care. Usually for a cancer patient focus is mainly placed on medically treating cancer, but the depression that come as a result of the illness are often overlooked. Cancer doesn't take up residence just in a woman’s body—it also infiltrates her home, family, relationships, and career. Every day thousands of women are diagnosed with cancer, and every day thousands of spouses and partners step into the role of caregiver.

Unfortunately the depression is not limited to cancer patient only. The partner is living with his/her dying partner suffering from cancer. Still they consoling their partners and giving a hope of recovery. To reduce depression and mental trauma for both patient and their family it's high time to introduce alter therapy;

Psychological counselling, music and colour therapy and others. 

Amita Dutta, Director of Performing Art Therapy Centre, Rabindra Bharati University is a profound name in the field of alter therapy who is she is actively working with cancer survivors and their family members as a part of modern treatment.