Indian Cancer Society, Bangalore Chapter

Activities / ACT Clinics(After Completion of Treatment)

Beyond Survival: Supporting Quality of Life for Childhood Cancer Survivors

Adding years to life is important, but equally vital is ensuring quality of life in those added years. For survivors of childhood cancer, rehabilitation is crucial, as they have their whole lives ahead of them.

With advances in oncology, outcomes for pediatric cancers have significantly improved. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for many childhood cancers now approaches 80%. This progress has brought a growing focus on the long-term impact of cancer treatment and the overall quality of life of childhood cancer survivors (CCS).

Research shows that nearly two out of every three CCSs experience at least one late effect of treatment. Around 40% may develop a severe, disabling, or life-threatening condition within 30 years of their diagnosis (Source: Indian J Cancer, 2015;52:219-23). Certain survivors face increased risks of psychological distress, neurocognitive challenges, and compromised health-related quality of life.

To address these needs, the Indian Cancer Society has established After Completion of Therapy (ACT) Clinics, in collaboration with ICS Mumbai. These long-term follow-up clinics are based in cancer hospitals across India and are dedicated to supporting pediatric cancer survivors.

Each clinic includes a qualified psychologist who provides mental health screening, consultation, and early intervention. In addition to psychological care, ICS supports survivors through:

  • The D. J. Jussawalla Educational Fund for eligible children
  • Financial aid for treatment of late effects at empanelled hospitals
  • A dedicated Late Effects Fund
  • Peer support groups for survivors
  • Vocational training at subsidised rates

In Bengaluru, ICS has partnered with Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Mazumdar Shaw Medical Center to offer ACT follow-up services. These hospitals continue to manage survivors’ medical care as needed during this phase.

By providing comprehensive, long-term care, ACT Clinics help childhood cancer survivors live not just longer, but better.

How can you help?

DONATE

India Cancer Society is able to function on the strength of donations it gets. Every rupee donated goes a long way in helping needy patients.

VOLUNTEER

India Cancer Society is always in need of motivated, dedicated volunteers to help spread the organization's message and participate in on-ground activities.

Jannet Maria Jibu is an MSW graduate in Clinical and Community Practice from Christ University, Bangalore, with a background in Psychology from Delhi University.

Jannet interned at leading hospitals and NGOs, working across mental health, disability support, and women’s rights.

Her passion lies in community upliftment and inclusive care. Jannet brings empathy, initiative, and leadership to every project she takes up.

 

Dr. Pavithra is an Ayurveda physician holding a BAMS degree from Ramakrishna Ayurveda Medical College, Bangalore. She also has an additional certification, a PG Diploma in clinical research.

With a strong foundation in Ayurvedic medicine and clinical research, Dr. Pavithra brings a unique blend of traditional and evidence-based approaches to healthcare.

Dr. Pavithra specializes in providing adjuvant care, supportive, palliative, end-of-life care, and post-cancer survivorship, contributing to holistic cancer care through Ayurveda.

Dr. Pavan Kumar. H (BDS) graduated in 2024, worked as a consultant Dentist in Ballari, Karnataka, and worked as an Associate Dentist at Swaraj Dental Clinic in Bangalore. He is presently working as a project consultant for TCC at ICS Bangalore.

 

Dr. Pavan believes in working as a team to reach greater heights. He believes in the core values of positive attitude, optimism and self-respect. He is interested in reading digital medical journals and spending time by researching innovations in digital dentistry.

Dr. Swathi D Acharya, holds a BAMS degree and currently serves as Programme Coordinator at Indian Cancer Society, Bangalore.

With over 5 years of experience in the medical field, her career included roles such as Medical Officer at Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Bangalore, Duty Medical Officer at Pragathi Multi-speciality Hospital Mangalore and RBSK Medical Officer at NRHM Mangalore. Dr. Swathi enjoys drawing and reading books, which complement her passion for holistic well-being. 

I am a native of Kalaburagi, with an MSW completed in 2022 and an HRM in 2024. Post graduation, I gained valuable experience working with an NGO dedicated to orphan rehabilitation and have explored various other sectors. 

Driven by a passion for public service, I found the ideal platform at ICS, where I joined as a Medical Social Worker in May 2024 to contribute to public health. In my free time, I enjoy reading magazines, newspapers, and listening to music for relaxation.

Shrinidhi N. Naikal is an alumnus of Nutan Vidyalaya Commerce College, Kalaburagi. He has served as a Senior Coordinator in the magazine section of Ramoji Film City, and was the Regional Coordinator at Blue Star India Ltd., Hyderabad. Shrinidhi has volunteered at ICS from 2007 uptil June 2023. From June 2023, Shrinidhi has taken the role of the Regional Coordinator at ICS, Kalaburagi.

Dr. Ashwini from Kalaburgi graduated with a BAMS degree in 2023. She then interned at the HCG Cancer Hospital, Bangalore and gaining valuable experience in Radiation Oncology. She has participated in multiple medical camps with ICS with focus on community health and cancer awareness. Dr. Ashwini is a Project Coordinator at ICS, Kalaburagi since August 2024 and is committed to promote cancer prevention. Dr. Ashwini is a passionate singer and a state level Yoga player.

Dr. Guru Suhas. P has an undergraduate degree in Dental Sciences from Oxford College of Dental Sciences Bangalore and followed it up with a Masters in Public Health Dentistry from Bangalore Institute of Dental Sciences. He then worked as faculty in Maruthi Dental College. He joined the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) as a Project scientist for little over two years. He has now found his passion in Indian Cancer Society and wants to help spread awareness about cancer.