Marking World Cancer Day with a powerful call for collective action, SPARSH Hospitals, Yelahanka, organised a 7K Walkathon in order to promote awareness around cancer prevention, early detection and timely medical treatment. The initiative aligned with the global theme “United by Unique” and the slogan “We Can, I Can,” emphasizing that while each and every cancer journey is personal, the fight against the disease requires united community effort.
The walkathon witnessed enthusiastic participation from nearly 1,200 individuals including healthcare professionals, survivors of cancers caregivers, families, and members of the local community. The presence of doctors from IMA Yelahanka alongside SPARSH Hospitals’ in-house consultants indicated a shared commitment with the medical fraternity in order to address the growing burden of cancer through awareness and preventive action.
The event was attended by Abhishek Thomas, Cluster COO, SPARSH Hospitals Yelahanka and Sarjapur, who highlighted the significance of community driven engagement in tackling the non-communicable diseases. Speaking about the event he said “Cancer Awareness cannot remain confined to hospitals; it has to begin with the communities and households. Some factors such as preventive lifestyles, routine screenings, and timely medical consultation can significantly reduce the burden of advanced-stage diagnoses. Initiatives like this walkathon are a reminder that collective responsibility plays a major role in shaping healthier futures. When individuals become aware and proactive, long-term outcomes improve not just for patients, but for society as whole.”
SPARSH Hospitals’ Oncology and Haematology specialists led the awareness efforts during the event. The expert panel included Dr. (Lt Col) Manish Kumar, Senior Consultant – Medical Oncology; Dr. Palaniappan Ramanathan, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology; Dr. P. Sasikala, Consultant – Radiation Oncology; Dr. Chandrakala S., Senior Consultant – Haematology; and Dr. Smitha Shekar, Consultant Haematologist, Paediatric Oncologist & BMT Physician. The team also emphasized that early diagnosis significantly improves the rate of survival and that public participation in screening programs can help to detect cancers at treatable stages.
The walkathon served not only as the physical demonstration of solidarity but also as an educational platform reinforcing the message that prevention, timely screening and access to multidisciplinary care can meaningfully impact the patient outcomes.
Through this initiative, SPARSH Hospitals reaffirmed its commitment to community health engagement and main mission of supporting individuals and those families who are affected by cancer. The event also highlighted the significance of collective awareness in building a more informed and proactive society in the fight against cancer.
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