In a groundbreaking step for women’s healthcare, Apollo Hospitals has launched Apollo Athenaa—Asia’s first cancer centre dedicated solely to women—in the heart of Delhi’s Defence Colony. The centre was formally inaugurated by Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, alongside Apollo Hospitals Founder-Chairman Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, MP Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, MLA Shri Neeraj Basoya, and Apollo leaders Ms. Preetha Reddy and Mr. Harshad Reddy.

For Chief Minister Gupta, the launch marked a milestone moment. “Cancer care for women is a deeply sensitive issue, and it gives me great satisfaction to see us moving towards real empowerment for women. Apollo Athenaa will ensure dignity, security, and privacy for every woman,” she said.

The need for such a centre could not be more urgent. Data from ICMR’s National Cancer Registry Programme shows breast and cervical cancers are now the most common among Indian women. GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates reveal that more than half of all cancer cases in women—nearly 54%—are linked to cancers that primarily affect them.

Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, who has been a driving force in modernising healthcare in India, called Athenaa a bold new chapter. “This centre is where cutting-edge science meets compassion. Every woman here will be assured of dignity and timely care. It’s our belief that India can not only lead in medical innovation but also reimagine healthcare as a force for hope and humanity,” he said.

Echoing that vision, MP Bansuri Swaraj pointed out that while the government is strengthening cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, initiatives like Apollo Athenaa add crucial support. “Apollo’s focus on women-centric cancer care will complement the national health mission and set a new benchmark globally,” she said.

For MLA Neeraj Basoya, the centre represents something deeper. “The strength of any society lies in the health of its women. Apollo Athenaa reflects a bold vision to place women at the centre of our healthcare priorities,” he remarked.

Ms. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, described the centre as more than a hospital. “Athenaa is a movement. By focusing exclusively on cancers affecting women, it offers personalised care that respects dignity, enables early detection, improves outcomes, and restores hope. From advanced diagnostics to recovery support, every element is designed around her needs,” she said.

With Apollo Athenaa, India now has a dedicated space where women facing cancer can find not only advanced medical treatment but also empathy, privacy, and hope—a reminder that healthcare is as much about healing hearts as it is about curing disease.