Bengaluru, 7th October, 2024: Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road proudly hosted the ‘Pink Strong’ Walkathon, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness on breast cancer and emphasizing the need for regular screening, early detection and prevention.

The ‘Pink Strong’ walkathon commenced from Fortis Bannerghatta Road at 6:00 am to Gopalan Mall and back to Fortis Bannerghatta Road, covering a distance of 5 kms. Over 450 participants including breast cancer survivors, doctors, and other community members participated in the walkathon. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Monika Pansari, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Dr Vivek Belathur, Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology at Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road and Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head at Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Hon’ble Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka said, “I’m proud to be part of Fortis Hospital’s initiative to raise awareness on breast cancer. This cause is not just important – it’s essential for saving lives. Early detection and timely treatment are critical, and events like the Pink Strong Walkathon are vital in rallying community support. Together, we can lessen the impact of cancer and enhance the lives of those affected.”

Dr. Monika Pansari, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road said, “Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in India, representing a significant portion of female cancers. Alarmingly, the incidence is rising among younger women, with nearly 48% of patients under the age of 50. This highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and early detection. Regular screenings are essential for effective treatment, especially as we see more young women affected. It’s vital for women to stay vigilant about their health; understanding risk factors. Adopting healthy lifestyle choices can lead to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes. Community support is crucial in this fight; together, we can raise awareness, promote proactive health measures, and create a healthier future for all.”

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, added, ” The Pink Strong Walkathon is a remarkable opportunity to unite our community in the fight against breast cancer. At Fortis Hospitals, we are committed to providing state-of-the-art technology and comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs. Our advanced diagnostic and treatment options empower us to detect breast cancer earlier and offer personalized solutions that enhance outcomes. Together, through initiatives like this walkathon, we can raise awareness and support each other on the journey to a healthier future.”