Early Detection Can Prevent Breast Cancer: Upasana Kamineni Konidela at Apollo Hospitals CSR Press Meet

In a significant healthcare initiative, Fujifilm India, in association with the Apollo Foundation, has launched a nationwide Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign titled “Find It Early. Fight It Early.” The campaign was officially launched by Upasana Kamineni Konidel, Vice Chairperson of CSR at Apollo Hospitals. She has also been appointed the campaign ambassador by Fujifilm India.

This CSR initiative aims to spread awareness about early detection of breast cancer, especially in communities where taboos and lack of medical access delay diagnosis and treatment. The campaign will span across 24 cities in India, with an estimated outreach of 1.5 lakh women. It will be implemented on the ground by trained health workers under the leadership of the Apollo Foundation.

Key Highlights:

• Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting Indian women, accounting for 14% of all cancers among women as per ICMR’s National Cancer Registry.
• 1 in every 29 Indian women is at risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime.
• Due to a lack of awareness, stigma, and poor access to screening, many cases are diagnosed at late stages.
• The campaign aims to provide culturally sensitive, community-based information, supported by public discussions, workshops, and awareness sessions.

Upasana Kamineni Konidela’s Statement:

Speaking at the event, Upasana said,

“Namaste to all. Thank you to everyone who stands with us in our mission to prioritize women’s health. Today, we are launching a movement. This initiative brings technology into the lives of everyday women and marks the first step in transforming our healthcare system into a mass movement.”

She highlighted the alarming statistics:

• Every 4 minutes, a woman in India is diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Every 13 minutes, a woman dies from the disease.
• Over 50% of Indian women are diagnosed at a late stage.

She emphasized that trained healthcare workers would now reach women in urban slums, construction sites, and low-income areas, providing essential screening and education. A pilot program in Aragonda, Tamil Nadu, has already saved 150 lives.

“This is not charity; this is our responsibility,” she added, encouraging women to overcome taboos and perform self-examinations just as openly as they discuss blood sugar levels. “Let’s start a change—doctors, journalists, influencers, community leaders—share your experiences.”

Fujifilm India MD Koji Wada’s Statement:

Koji Wada, Managing Director of Fujifilm India, stated:

“Breast cancer can be prevented through awareness and early detection. Our campaign, under the slogan ‘Find it Early. Fight it Early,’ reflects our commitment to educating and empowering women.”

He reaffirmed the company’s dedication to making healthcare accessible, affordable, and effective, especially in underserved areas. This initiative aligns with Fujifilm’s Sustainable Value 2030 goals, ensuring equitable medical access for all.

“Whether it’s a remote village or a dense city, every woman deserves the right to know and protect her health,” he concluded.

This impactful campaign sets the stage for a massive awareness drive, aiming not just to inform, but to save lives.