The meeting on the ongoing feasibility study took place on February 19, 2024, at 12:30 PM in the Boardroom, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna. Key participants included Prof. Thavam Thambipillai, a general surgeon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and a professor at the University of South Dakota. Prof. R. Surenthirakumaran, Dean of Medicine; and Dr. B. Balagobi, Senior Lecturer and Consultant Urological Surgeon. Dr. S. Kumaran, Coordinator, Centre for Digital Epidemiology; Dr. S. Gobishangar, Head & Senior Lecturer in Surgery; Dr. S. Raguraman, Senior Lecturer & Consultant Obstetrician; Dr. G. Sritharan, Consultant Onco Surgeon; and Dr. M. Thanuja, Gynecologic Oncologist, were also present. Mr. K. Thivakar, overall programme coordinator, and other team members attended. Highlights included Dr. Kumaran’s overview of the feasibility work, emphasising community benefits and project integration. Dr. B. Balagobi discussed a cancer screening workshop, and Prof. Surenthirakumaran proposed tracking screening details. Subsequently, Prof. Thavam Thambipillai and team members discussed existing cancer screening facilities for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers, including mammograms, colposcopy, and FIT tests. Dr. M. Thanuja explained the steps for cervical cancer screening. Dr. G. Sritharan highlighted the significance of awareness programmes in bringing about sustainable changes in cancer screening knowledge within communities. He emphasised the importance of making communities aware of available surgeons, the significance of early detection, and how it aids in curing cancer. Prof. R. Surenthirakumaran explained the importance of a systematic approach and utilising existing resources in cancer screening. Prof. Thambipillai emphasised the synergy of future results from the feasibility study and existing awareness programmes for impactful screening. The meeting concluded with group photos, marking the day’s significance.
