Hyderabad, Oct.26 (NSS): In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and commitment to breast cancer awareness, Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs), Hyderabad, organized the “Pink Defender Walkathon” today at the Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National (KBR) Park, bringing together over 100 male staff members, including oncologists, nurses, and medical professionals.
The initiative was aimed to highlight the critical role that men can play in supporting the fight against breast cancer, advocating for early detection and encouraging conversations around breast health. The event was a part of ACCs’ larger “Talk Pink” campaign, designed to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding breast cancer.
While women often prioritize the health of others, it’s time for men to step up as advocates for their mothers, wives, sisters, and friends. “Pink Defender Walkathon” focussed on male involvement and urged them to take the lead in ensuring women in their circle get screened for breast cancer.
The walkathon was flagged off by chief guest C.V. Anand, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad, who graced the occasion alongside senior clinicians, including Dr Vijay Anand Reddy, Director of Apollo Cancer Centre, Hyderabad, and Dr TPS Bhandari, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Hyderabad.
The event witnessed enthusiastic male staff members’ participation from the hospital, all sporting pink T-shirts and carrying messages on how men can contribute towards promoting awareness about women’s breast health and how early detection is a game changer in the fight against cancer. The sea of pink against the lush greenery of KBR Park was both striking and symbolic, reflecting solidarity and commitment to the cause of breast cancer awareness. Participants carried banners and placards with empowering messages, their camaraderie palpable as they moved in unison.
C.V. Anand, IPS, lauded Apollo Cancer Centres for their efforts in bringing together the community and fostering open conversations about breast health. “Breast cancer affects not just women but their entire families. Men can play an instrumental role in building knowledge around breast health, encouraging women to opt for self-breast examination and early detection for better treatment outcomes. Initiatives like “Talk Pink and “Pink Defender Walkathon” will help us break the silence and rally behind our loved ones,” he said, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in healthcare.
Dr Vijay Anand Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Centre, Hyderabad, Dr TPS Bhandari, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Hyderabad spoke. The campaign is a step to ignite meaningful discussions across families, workplaces, and communities, challenging the silence and stigma surrounding breast cancer. By fostering collaboration between men and women, we edge towards a future where breast cancer claims no lives.
