Kolkata: Reinforcing the life-saving power of early cancer detection, Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata, has launched its impactful ‘Zero to Hero’ campaign in observance of World Cancer Day, placing the spotlight on Stage Zero cancer detection and its potential to dramatically improve survival, recovery and quality of life.
India is witnessing a sharp rise in cancer cases, with over 15 lakh new diagnoses reported in 2024 and the numbers continuing to climb annually, according to ICMR–NCRP data presented in Parliament. Alarmingly, one in every nine Indians now faces a lifetime risk of cancer. Despite medical advancements, over 70% of cancers in India are still diagnosed at advanced stages (Stage III or IV)—when treatment becomes more complex, outcomes are poorer, and the emotional and financial burden on families is significantly higher.
Responding to this urgent public health challenge, Apollo Cancer Centre Kolkata’s ‘Zero to Hero’ initiative underscores the transformative impact of early-stage detection and timely intervention, turning what could be a life-threatening diagnosis into a journey of survival and hope. The campaign celebrates real-life cancer survivors who acted early and emerged as heroes—empowered by awareness, access, and prompt medical care. While cancers vary across organs such as the brain, breast, head and neck, lungs, pancreas and liver, these survivors are united by one decisive factor: early diagnosis.
Rana Dasgupta, CEO, Apollo Hospitals – Eastern Region, said,
“Early detection is not just a medical priority—it is a systems priority. Evidence consistently shows that early-stage cancers offer significantly higher disease-free survival and longer life expectancy. At Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata, our focus extends beyond treatment to prevention and early diagnosis. Identifying cancer early strengthens cancer registries, accelerates care pathways, and helps patients transition from diagnosis to survivorship. This proactive approach has the power to redefine cancer care in India.”
Echoing this sentiment, Surinder Singh Bhatia, Director – Medical Services, Apollo Hospitals – Eastern Region, stated,
“Cancer does not begin at Stage Three or Stage Four—it starts silently, often before symptoms appear. The ‘Zero to Hero’ campaign aims to shift the conversation from late-stage rescue to early-stage victories. When cancer is detected at Stage Zero or Stage One, treatment is simpler, outcomes are stronger, and patients can return to normal life much sooner. This initiative empowers people to act early, ask questions, and seek help without fear.”
Senior oncologists at Apollo Cancer Centre Kolkata—Dr. Shaikat Gupta (Director & Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology), Dr. Supratim Bhattacharyya (Consultant, Surgical Oncology), and Dr. Vikash Kumar Agarwal (Consultant, Surgical Oncology)—said in a joint statement,
“Every day, we witness the profound difference early detection makes. Cancers diagnosed in their earliest stages often require less invasive treatment, respond better, and have significantly improved survival rates. Delayed diagnosis, however, makes the journey far more challenging. Early intervention not only saves lives but preserves quality of life—making awareness, regular screening, and prompt care absolutely vital.”
Dr. Joydeep Ghosh, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, added,
“At the heart of the ‘Zero to Hero’ campaign is a simple truth—the real hero is the patient. When individuals prioritise awareness, undergo regular screening, and seek care at the earliest signs, they dramatically improve their chances of recovery. Early intervention can change the entire course of the disease, transforming fear into hope.”
Highlighting the role of advanced treatment, Dr. Tanweer Shahid, Director & Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, said,
“Radiation therapy is most effective when cancer is identified early. With modern imaging and precision techniques, early-stage tumours can often be treated with focused radiation, reducing the need for extensive surgery or chemotherapy. Campaigns like ‘Zero to Hero’ emphasise that timely diagnosis is just as crucial as cutting-edge technology.”
Sharing her personal journey, Mili Mondal, one of Apollo Cancer Centre Kolkata’s cancer heroes, said,
“The word ‘cancer’ was terrifying when I was diagnosed—but catching it early changed everything. My treatment was manageable, recovery was faster, and my life never felt like it was on pause. Early detection turned me into a survivor, not a statistic. ‘Zero to Hero’ reminds people that cancer doesn’t always have to mean fear—if you act in time, it can mean hope.”
Through the ‘Zero to Hero’ campaign, Apollo Cancer Centre Kolkata reaffirms its commitment to early diagnosis, preventive oncology, and patient empowerment, driving the message that the fight against cancer can be won—when it begins early.
