Breaking the stigma: Silence to strength

On September 11th, “Awareness Program on Prostate Cancer” was held at the Brac University auditorium. The event was organized by the Brac University Pharma Society (BUPS) and sponsored by Everest Pharmaceuticals. Present at the event were Dr. Arman Reza Chowdhury (Senior Consultant of Radiation Oncology, Evercare Hospital), Dr. Syed Ferhat Anwar (Vice-Chancellor, BracU) and Dr. AFM Yusuf Haider (Acting Dean, School of Pharmacy) along with faculties and alumni. 

The programme included activities to raise awareness of prostate cancer and to educate students on the risk factors, symptoms, and screening methods. Dr. Chowdhury described the role of the prostate gland and its structure, the significance of PSA levels, and possible treatment of the localized and advanced cancer. Another element of the event was a Q&A session concerning the problem of social stigma, an engaging quiz, a prize-giving ceremony, and a poster presentation award to ensure that students engage in the event and share the knowledge they obtain beyond university.

The Vice-Chancellor used the concept of the social psychology of the elephant and rider in his speech to emphasize the significance of being aware and to provide rational direction in the behavioral process. One of the participants reported, “It was an informative session that made us wish to discuss health-related matters with a lot of sensitivity”, and another participant said, “I am much more aware of the risks and importance of early screening”. The programme was successful, and it reflected the interest of BUPS in student education and community awareness programmes.