Kanchan Bisht, PhD

Promoting Breast Cancer Awareness and
Education among Young Women
Doiwala, Uttarakhand, India

Dr. Bisht, an accomplished neuroscientist trained in the United States, recently returned to the region she came from. Her research mainly focuses on understanding microglia phenotypes across physiology, aging, stress, and neurodegeneration. Dr. Bisht’s ground-breaking work resulted in two major discoveries in the field, which continue to be highly cited. However, her biggest challenge came unexpectedly at the age of 36 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Dr. Bisht tirelessly advocacy for a mammogram, but her concerns were dismissed by three doctors. Her unwavering insistence eventually led to an important, but life-changing diagnosis. This experience highlighted a crucial truth: breast cancer may not always present with a lump, and even medical professionals can sometimes miss it, contributing to preventable delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Bisht’s inspiring journey highlights the significance of self-advocacy. It dispels the notion that breast cancer only affects older women and encourages young women to pay attention to their bodies, trust their instincts, and demand high-quality care. Early detection is the most powerful weapon, and awareness is an unwavering shield – treatment became her new research project, and her body became the battlefield. Dr. Bisht emerged stronger after undergoing chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, and she now has a renewed mission: to empower young women to become strong health advocates. Her cancer journey taught her resilience, strength, and perseverance. Today, she stands proud as a role model, inspiring others to fight for their health and make a positive impact like her.