Kolkata: In a thoughtful blend of indulgence and awareness, Apollo Cancer Centre (ACC) has unveiled ‘Check-Olate’, an innovative initiative that transforms a simple bar of chocolate into a powerful reminder for women to prioritise their health. More than just a treat, Check-Olate encourages women to pause, reflect, and adopt breast self-examination as a regular act of self-care.
Breast cancer continues to pose a serious health challenge in India. According to GLOBOCAN, it remains the leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality among Indian women, accounting for 13.5% of all new cancer cases and 10.6% of cancer-related deaths. Despite this, screening rates remain alarmingly low. Data from NCBI reveals that only 1.6% of women aged 30–69 years have ever undergone breast cancer screening. Recognising this urgent gap, Apollo Cancer Centre aims to normalise conversations around breast health and empower women to take proactive steps through the Check-Olate initiative.
The campaign was launched in the presence of Dr. Surinder Singh Bhatia, Director Medical Services, Apollo Hospitals, Eastern Region; Sumitra Barat, Executive Member of Hitaishini—a voluntary organisation spreading breast cancer awareness across India; and leading specialists from Apollo Cancer Centre, including Dr. Arundhati De, Dr. Mukti Mukherjee, Dr. Rashmi Chand, Dr. Ritu Srivastava, and Suhita Mukherjee, Onco-Counsellor.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Surinder Singh Bhatia said,
“When women thrive, nations flourish. A woman’s well-being strengthens families, communities, and the economy alike. At Apollo Cancer Centre, we continue to champion early detection, timely intervention, and a culture of proactive care. ‘Check-Olate’ is a meaningful step in reminding every woman that self-care is not a privilege, but a source of power that builds a healthier and stronger India.”
Highlighting the importance of early awareness, Dr. Arundhati De, Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata, added,
“Early detection saves lives. Breast awareness is the first step, and breast self-examination helps women become familiar with their own bodies and notice abnormalities early. Check-Olate turns a small moment of indulgence into a gentle reminder—just a few minutes of self-examination each month can truly make a difference.”
Each Check-Olate dark chocolate bar features a QR code that, when scanned, opens an animated, easy-to-follow video demonstrating the step-by-step process of breast self-examination, making awareness accessible, engaging, and stigma-free.
Smt. Sumitra Barat, Executive Member, Hitaishini, shared,
“Chocolate brings comfort and joy. What makes Check-Olate special is how Apollo Cancer Centre has transformed that joy into a heartfelt reminder for women to care for themselves and take charge of their health.”
Beyond symbolism, the initiative is rooted in wellness. Dark chocolate, according to NCBI, is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and improve mood. Studies also highlight its benefits for cardiovascular, skin, and metabolic health—making Check-Olate both a comforting treat and a meaningful nudge toward holistic well-being.
More than a breast cancer awareness campaign, Check-Olate represents a movement—encouraging women to reclaim control over their health through simple, consistent rituals. By merging empathy, creativity, and purpose, Apollo Cancer Centre is redefining how healthcare communication connects with women, reminding them that caring for themselves can be both empowering and comforting.
