Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd (AHEL) has launched Apollo Athenaa, Asia’s first dedicated cancer centre for women, located in Defence Colony, New Delhi. The centre was inaugurated by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, in the presence of Dr Prathap C Reddy, Founder-Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, and other dignitaries. The launch of this centre is a significant step towards addressing the growing incidence of cancer among women in India.
According to recent studies, more women than men are being diagnosed with cancer, with breast and cervical cancers being the most common types among Indian women. The Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) has reported that these two types of cancer account for the highest incidence among women. The GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates also reveal that nearly 54% of cancer incidence among women in India is attributed to cancers that majorly affect women, including breast and cervical cancers.
The Apollo Athenaa centre aims to provide a comprehensive and sensitive approach to cancer care for women, ensuring dignity, security, and privacy for every patient. The centre’s launch is also seen as a milestone in cancer care, complementing the national health mission to enhance prevention, early detection, treatment, and patient care nationwide. The Government of India has introduced robust policies and strategic interventions to address the rising incidence of cancer, and the Apollo Athenaa centre is expected to play a significant role in this effort.
The inauguration of the centre was attended by several dignitaries, including Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament, who highlighted the government’s commitment to women’s health and cancer care. The centre’s launch is a transformative initiative that sets a global benchmark in women-centric cancer care, and it is expected to make a significant impact in the lives of women affected by cancer. With the establishment of Apollo Athenaa, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd has reinforced its commitment to providing innovative and patient-centric healthcare services, particularly in the area of cancer care for women.