1st Bluethon , a unique Colorectal Cancer Awareness Programme organised under the aegis of Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI) In Srinagar

Srinagar: The first BLUETHON was conceived and designed by Dr Shabnam Bashir, from the Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (ACRSI), and jointly executed by the ACRSI and the University of Kashmir, Srinagar, on 27 March 2022 at the Nageen Club. The incharge Health Centre KU, Dr Ashfaq Zarri collaborated and coordinated between various teams from University of Kashmir participating in various activities
The Bluethon (blue ribbon signifies Colorectal Cancer) included an early Shikara race in which 150 youth in 30 shikaras participated. A human colon was formed by the delegates to drive in the message of this crucial organ in health and disease. Both the events, which were covered by a drone for aerial videography, were watched enthusiastically by hundreds of viewers.

These events were followed by the Awareness Programme which was participated by the invited audience from different walks of life. The Programme was graced by the Vice Chancellor IUST (Prof Shakeel Ramshoo), Director Tourism, J&K (Dr GN Itoo), Registrar, University of Kashmir (Dr Nisar Ahmad, President, Association of Colon & Rectal Surgeons of India (Prof Nisar Chowdhury), Deputy Director Health Services, Kashmir, and other dignitaries. Padam Shri & B C Roy Awardee, Dr Bhandari, the former VC King George Medical University, and Global MD Vattikutti Foundation flew in from the USA.

The Shikara race was flagged off by the VC and other dignitaries. After Dr Nisar Chowdhri, President of ACRSI, welcomed the dignitaries and the guests, which was followed by the Cancer Awareness talk by Dr Shabnam Bashir who discussed prevention of colorectal cancers by lifestyle modification in the context of Kashmir and early detection before the cancer reaches an advanced state. This was followed by a themic creative art competition organised by the Music & Fine Arts Department, and the toppers were given prizes. The vote of thanks was delivered by I/C Health Centre, University of Kashmir. The event was concluded by formation of a Human Colon through participation of all attendees. The function was concluded by felicitation of the chief guest, the guest of honour and the special guest.

The key sponsor of the event was the Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir University, and the allied sponsors were the ICICI Bank, Racon Medicare Pvt Ltd, and M.R.S Enterprises. Special thanks are due to SDRF, Kashmir University, and Ms Bilqees, I/C Sports Council Centre for facilitating the Shikara race. We acknowledge the selfless services offered by the youth who made the event a grand success.