Apollo Cancer Centres Launch ‘Zero to Hero’ Campaign in Chennai to Promote Early Cancer Detection
Chennai: Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, and Apollo Proton Cancer Centre have launched the ‘Zero to Hero’ campaign to raise awareness about Stage Zero cancer detection and highlight the importance of early diagnosis in improving survival and recovery outcomes, marking World Cancer Day initiatives.
According to ICMR-NCRP data presented in Parliament, India recorded over 15 lakh new cancer cases in 2024, with numbers continuing to rise annually. With one in nine Indians now facing a lifetime risk of cancer, the disease has become a major public health concern. Experts note that more than 70% of cases in India are diagnosed at advanced stages (III or IV), when treatment becomes more complex, outcomes are poorer, and financial burdens on families increase.
As part of the campaign, Apollo Cancer Centre hosted an expert interaction moderated by Dr. Ayyappan, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology. The panel included oncologists Dr. R. Srivathsan (Uro-oncology & Robotic Surgery), Dr. P. Venkat (Surgical Oncology), Dr. Asha Reddy (Breast Surgery), Dr. Ajit Pai (Surgical Oncology), Dr. Senthil Kumar A. C. (Surgical Oncology), and Dr. Senthil Kumar Ganapthi (Surgical Gastroenterology). The specialists emphasised that early detection enables simpler treatment, improved survival rates, and better quality of life for patients.
The ‘Zero to Hero’ initiative also highlights survivor stories across various cancer types, underscoring how timely diagnosis and early intervention can transform outcomes and reduce treatment complexity.
Harshad Reddy, Director – Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., said early detection must be prioritised at a systems level, noting that early-stage cancers have significantly better survival rates. He added that focusing on prevention and early diagnosis helps strengthen cancer registries, accelerate treatment pathways, and shift healthcare from reactive treatment to proactive cancer control.
Karan Puri, Chief Executive Officer of Apollo Proton Cancer Centre and Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, said the campaign aims to change public perception by focusing on early-stage diagnosis rather than late-stage treatment. He emphasised that cancers detected at Stage Zero or Stage One often require less complex treatment and allow patients to return to normal life sooner.
Through the ‘Zero to Hero’ campaign, Apollo aims to encourage people to seek timely screenings, ask questions, and overcome fear around early testing, reinforcing the message that early diagnosis can significantly improve survival and long-term outcomes.
