Dhaka:A 'Pink Road Rally-2026' commenced today, traveling from Dhaka to Chattagram, aiming to raise public awareness about breast cancer and emphasize the importance of early detection.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the awareness campaign began on Friday morning in the capital, organized by the Bangladesh Breast Cancer Awareness Forum. More than 50 voluntary organizations are participating in the initiative.
The campaign features doctors, health workers, specialist surgeons, cancer survivors, organizers, and cultural activists traveling in a specially decorated pink bus. The initiative seeks to enhance public awareness through roadside meetings, short rallies, and the distribution of informative leaflets written in simple Bangla.
Participating organizations include the World Cancer Society Bangladesh, COC, YWCA, Khorshed Jahan Haque Cancer Research and Hospital, Naripokkho, Gonoshasthaya Community-Based Cancer Hospital, BCF, Manabik Unnayan Kendra, Friends of Bangladesh, Jamalpur Samity Dhaka, Pallima Mohila Parishad, Aparajita, TMSS, CCEPRB, HIL, Rotary Club, and Inner Wheel Club District 328, among others.
The rally, which began in Dhaka, is scheduled to reach Barishal via several locations including Srinagar, Bhanga, and Tekerhat, with participants staying overnight in Barishal. The next phase will cover around 40 localities before returning to Dhaka.
Support for the initiative is being provided by the World Cancer Society Bangladesh, Gonoshasthaya Kendra, and various voluntary organizations. The rally was inaugurated by Prof Dr Md Habibullah Talukder Ruskin, emphasizing the significance of early cancer detection and regular examinations.
Dr Syed Humayun Kabir, president of the World Cancer Society Bangladesh, highlighted the need for social awareness and regular screenings to prevent breast cancer. The organizers hope the rally will dispel misconceptions and encourage timely treatment-seeking behavior.