In a ground-breaking fusion of healthcare advocacy and cultural tradition, Apollo Cancer Centres has successfully launched ‘DrapePink’—an innovative breast cancer awareness campaign in collaboration with Sundari Silks. The two-day event at Sundari Silks’ T. Nagar showroom, Chennai on October 22nd and 23rd, 2024 exemplifies Apollo’s commitment to advancing women’s health through creative community engagement.
The ‘DrapePink’ initiative transformed Sundari Silks’ showroom into an interactive health awareness hub, featuring an artistic installation of pink sarees arranged in the shape of the iconic breast cancer awareness ribbon. This unique approach to health education attracted significant attention, with prominent figures including Ms. Khushbu Sundar, noted actress and politician, joining Ms. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, to support the cause.
“Breast cancer, if detected early, can be managed effectively, and ‘DrapePink’ is our heartfelt effort to empower women with knowledge and awareness,” emphasizes Ms. Suneeta Reddy. “This initiative represents a fusion of tradition and health, showcasing the beauty of pink sarees while fostering a supportive community for women’s health.”
The ArtCan Initiative
A cornerstone of the event was the distribution of ‘ArtCan’—Apollo Cancer Centres’ innovative publication that illustrates the eight essential steps of breast self-examination. This resource specifically targets women aged 25-50, providing them with practical tools for proactive health management. The initiative reflects Apollo’s broader mission to leverage creative approaches in healthcare education and patient support.
Critical Statistics and Impact
Current data reveals the urgent need for such awareness initiatives:
– Breast cancer affects 25.8 per 100,000 women in India
– Mortality rate stands at 12.7 per 100,000 women
– Urban areas like Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi show particularly high incidence rates
– Young age remains a significant risk factor among Indian women
Dr. Manjula Rao, Consultant in Breast Oncoplastic Surgery at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, highlights the medical significance of the initiative: ‘DrapePink’ brings critical breast health education to the forefront, empowering women through knowledge of early symptoms and regular self-examination protocols.”
The event featured:
– One-on-one consultations with Apollo’s breast oncologists
– Practical demonstrations of self-examination techniques
– Interactive discussions on breast health management
– Distribution of educational materials and resources
The #TalkPink Campaign
‘DrapePink’ represents just one component of Apollo Cancer Centres’ comprehensive #TalkPink campaign. This ongoing initiative aims to:
– Create an open dialogue around breast health
– Reduce stigma associated with breast cancer discussions
– Promote early detection and regular screening
– Build a supportive community for breast cancer awareness
“As women, we carry immense strength within us, and it’s crucial to channel that strength towards taking care of our health,” notes Ms. Khushbu Sundar. “Initiatives like ‘DrapePink’ are more than just campaigns—they are a call to action for every woman to prioritize her well-being.”
THE CANCER CARE LEGACY: BREATHING HOPE INTO LIVES FOR OVER 30 YEARS
Cancer care today means 360-degree comprehensive care, which requires commitment, expertise, and an indomitable spirit from cancer specialists. Apollo Cancer Centres continues to lead the way in comprehensive cancer care, with:
• A network of over 390 oncologists across India
• Specialized Cancer Management Teams following organ-based practices
• The first and only Pencil Beam Proton Therapy Centre in South Asia & Middle East
• Treatment services accessible to patients from 147 countries
Through innovative initiatives like ‘DrapePink’, Apollo Cancer Centres reaffirms its commitment to combining medical excellence with community engagement, ensuring that cancer awareness and education reach every corner of society. The success of this collaboration with Sundari Silks demonstrates the power of creative partnerships in advancing public health awareness and early intervention strategies.
