Apollo Cancer Centre (ACC) has introduced Check-Olate, a sweet delicacy with an even sweeter reminder to take a moment for yourself, as part of a novel effort that combines enjoyment and awareness.

With 13.5% of all new cancer cases and 10.6% of all cancer deaths, breast cancer continues to be the primary cause of cancer incidence and mortality among Indian women, according to GLOBOCAN. Only 1.6% of women between the ages of 30 and 69 have ever had screening, despite this increasing burden. Acknowledging the critical need for increased knowledge and proactive prevention, ACC seeks to empower women to make breast self-examination a monthly habit and normalize self-care through Check-Olate, enabling them to take early control of their health.

The ‘Check-Olate’ campaign was launched in the presence of Dr. Surinder Singh Bhatia – Director Medical Services, Apollo Hospitals, Eastern Region, Smt. Sumitra Barat – Executive Member of Hitaishini (a voluntary organization spreading Breast Cancer Awareness across India), Dr. Arundhati De – Consultant Radiation Oncology, Dr. Mukti Mukherjee– Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Dr. Rashmi Chand – Consultant Radiology, Dr. Ritu Srivastava – Consultant, and Ms. Suhita Mukherjee – Onco-Counsellor.

Every dark chocolate bar (Check-Olate) has a QR code that, when scanned, displays an animated film that walks viewers through the process of performing a breast self-examination.

Check-Olate carefully employs dark chocolate for its established health benefits in addition to its symbolic warmth. Dark chocolate is high in flavonoids and antioxidants that support heart health, lower inflammation, and improve mood, according to the NCBI. Its beneficial effects on skin, cardiovascular, and metabolic health are further supported by research, making it more than just a sensory delight and a poignant reminder that taking care of your health can also be a source of comfort.

“Check-Olate” is more than just a campaign to raise awareness of breast cancer; it’s a movement that uses small, meaningful rituals to help women take back control of their health. Apollo Cancer Centre demonstrates how healthcare communication may be connected with empathy, creativity, and purpose by transforming a moment of indulgence into a call to self-care.

For more details, visit: https://apollocancercentres.com/ 

Priyanka Dutta