At the launch of the ‘Zero to Hero’ initiative’ by Apollo Pune
reinforcing the power of early cancer detection during World Cancer Month.
Doctors From Left to Right —
– Dr Ashwin Rajbhog – Medical Oncologist
– Dr Mohammad Ali – Uro Oncologist
– Dr Snita Sinukumar – Onco Surgeon
– Dr Manisha Karmarkar – MD Anesthesia & CEO, Apollo Pune
– Dr Vidita Powle – Head & Neck Onco Surgeon
– Dr Shweta Muttha – Radiation Oncologist
All leading the charge towards awareness, timely screening, & comprehensive cancer care!
PRESS RELEASE
Apollo Hospitals Pune launches ‘Zero to Hero’ initiative, reinforces the power of early cancer detection during World Cancer Month
21st February 2026 | Pune: Apollo Hospitals Pune, the city’s first 400 bed quaternary care centre, today announced the launch of its World Cancer Month awareness initiative, ‘Zero to Hero’, a campaign designed to highlight the life-saving impact of detecting cancer at its earliest stages. The initiative underscores Apollo’s core belief that cancer is conquerable when identified early, and brings together oncologists, survivors, and healthcare leaders to amplify the importance of screening, prevention, and timely intervention.
Apollo Hospitals Pune’s Oncology Centre of Excellence offers comprehensive cancer care supported by state-of-the-art technology and multidisciplinary expertise. The centre is equipped with AI-enabled PET-CT for highly accurate early detection, the VARIAN EDGE LINAC for precise, targeted radiation therapy, and the Da Vinci Xi robotic system for complex cancer surgeries across urological, gynaecological, gastrointestinal, and head and neck cancers. Backed by advanced diagnostics, precision radiation, and robotic surgery, the centre delivers an integrated approach spanning early detection, accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment, and improved recovery, reinforcing Apollo’s commitment to improving cancer outcomes through technology-led, patient-centric care.
Speaking on the launch, Dr. Manisha Karmarkar, CEO, Apollo Hospitals Pune, said, “Early cancer detection and prevention are among the most powerful tools in the fight against cancer. Early intervention significantly improves survival and reinforces Apollo’s long-standing belief that cancer can be defeated. However, screening only works when people participate. Fear, stigma, misinformation, and lack of awareness often delay diagnosis. At Apollo Hospitals Pune, our comprehensive ProHealth programme, India’s first AI-powered preventive health programme, empowers individuals to take proactive control of their health through advanced screening and risk assessment.”
Dr Snita Sinukumar, Senior Surgical Oncologist, Robotic and HIPEC Specialist, said, “Nearly 40 to 50% of cancers can be prevented or detected early through screening and lifestyle measures. Tests such as digital mammography, Pap smear, low-dose CT scans, colonoscopy, PSA testing, and oral examinations can identify cancer even before symptoms appear. When detected early, survival rates can improve to as high as 80 to 90% or more.”
The Oncology Team at Apollo Hospital, Pune, further added, “Many cancers can be prevented through lifestyle choices and public health efforts. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating fruits and vegetables, sun protection, and vaccines like HPV and Hepatitis B are key. Governments should ensure access to screening and health campaigns, while healthcare, schools, and workplaces promote healthy habits and provide guidance early age.”
Equally important is recognising early warning signs and overcoming the tendency to delay medical check-ups, a trend particularly common in men’s health. Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, unusual bleeding, new lumps, or a chronic cough lasting more than three weeks should never be ignored. While these signs do not always indicate cancer, early detection is critical for successful treatment, especially for prostate, kidney, and bladder cancers, which may be asymptomatic in their early stages. Modern interventions, such as advanced robotic surgery, have made many early-stage cancers highly treatable or even completely curable. Therefore, it is essential to listen to your body, use simple screening tests such as the PSA blood test, and consult a doctor promptly if any symptoms persist.
Through initiatives such as ‘Zero to Hero’, Apollo Hospitals Pune aims to build greater awareness, encourage proactive health-seeking behaviour, and empower individuals to take timely action, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to improving cancer outcomes through early detection and advanced care.
Apollo revolutionised healthcare when Dr Prathap Reddy opened the first hospital in Chennai in 1983. Today, Apollo is the world’s largest integrated healthcare platform with over 10,400 beds across 76 hospitals, 6,600+ pharmacies, 264 clinics, 2,182 diagnostic centres, and 800+ telemedicine centres. It is one of the world’s leading cardiac centres, having performed over 3,00,000 angioplasties and 2,00,000 surgeries. Apollo continues to invest in research and innovation to bring the most cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and treatment protocols to ensure patients have access to the best care in the world. Apollo’s 1,20,000 family members are dedicated to delivering exceptional care and leaving the world better than we found it.