“A proactive lifestyle can be a powerful line of defense against disease.”
On the refreshing morning of April 27, 2025, the city of Moradabad witnessed an inspiring spectacle as Rotary Club of Moradabad Brass City and MAX Superspeciality Hospital, Vaishali hosted its much-awaited Annual Walkathon, under the theme “WALK FOR HEALTH.”
Dr. Pawan Gupta, Senior Director of Surgical Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali,, proudly represented Max Healthcare at this remarkable event. Present was renowned Dietitian Sonal Bhatia who has been working tirelessly for tobacco eradication and creating TOBACCO MARSHALS and PINK ANGELs in the society.
A Walk Towards Wellness
At the break of dawn, over 300 spirited participants — students, social workers, and community members — assembled with a common mission: to advocate for healthier living. The 4-kilometer Walkathon was a vibrant tapestry of determination and hope, weaving together individuals from all walks of life in a shared journey towards better health.
The event was graced by Chief Guest Rtn. Payal Gaur, the District Governor Designate for 2026-27, whose presence added to the enthusiasm and energy of the gathering.
Dr. Pawan Gupta’s Inspiring Message
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pawan Gupta emphasized that health is a lifelong commitment, not a one-time effort. He urged everyone to adopt three essential pathways to holistic wellness:
1. The Way We Live
Incorporate exercise and meditation into daily routines.
Rise early to embrace the day with vitality and positivity.
Choose a healthy lifestyle over momentary comforts.
2. What We Eat
Embrace wholesome, nutritious foods, especially green leafy vegetables.
Eliminate tobacco and alcohol from life — choices that steal health and happiness.
Quitting tobacco is possible with medical therapy – call 977385664 to register
3. Regular Check-Ups
Prioritize routine screenings for chronic illnesses.
Monitor oral health closely, especially for individuals at high risk due to tobacco use.
Early detection of lesions can save lives.
In his words, “The journey to health begins with small, consistent steps — and today’s Walkathon is a testament to that spirit.”
A Community United by Purpose
The event beautifully showcased how collective efforts can drive powerful change. Children, parents, educators, and social workers walked side by side, symbolizing a united front against diseases rooted in lifestyle choices.
The Walkathon was not just a physical journey but a movement towards conscious living.
Glimpses of the Event
You can relive the vibrant moments of the day through this photo gallery: 🔗Walkathon 2025 Photos
Let’s keep the momentum alive! Every step counts. Every choice matters. Together, we can walk towards a healthier, happier tomorrow.
Join the movement. Inspire change. Embrace health.
By Prof. Dr. Pawan Gupta MS (Gen Surgery), M.Ch. (Surgical Oncology), FAIS, FSOG Founder – ICanCaRe | Surgical Oncologist | Tobacco Cessation Advocate 📍LinkedIn | 🌐www.drpawangupta.in 📧 pawan@icancare.com | ☎️ 9773856664
🧠 Why Odisha Needs Urgent Intervention
Odisha holds the unfortunate distinction of having one of the highest oral cancer incidence rates in the world. The prime culprit? Chewing tobacco—widely consumed in forms like Khaini, Gudaku, Gutka, and Paan.
Despite being a highly preventable and early-detectable disease, oral cancer is claiming thousands of lives due to delayed intervention and lack of awareness.
🗓️ A Powerful Dialogue with Rotary Club of Bhubaneswar
On April 21, 2025, I had the privilege of conducting an impactful session titled:
“Taming Oral Cancer in Odisha – The Need for Tobacco MARSHALS”
This was hosted by the oldest Rotary Club in Odisha and presided over by:
President: Mr. Jnana Ranjan Rath
Secretary: Mr. Saroj Ku Mohapatra
Coordinator: Mr. Biswajit Patra
The interaction was spirited, solutions-driven, and community-committed.
🔍 The Stark Reality
📌 50%+ of tobacco chewers are likely to develop oral cancer.
📌 11.3% of youth (aged 15–17) in Odisha already use tobacco – well above the national average.
📌 Most patients present in Stage III or IV, when outcomes are poor and costs are high.
🛠️ Our Mission: SAVE the Youth Campaign
We introduced the SAVE model, which forms the backbone of our strategy:
S.A.V.E.
Action
S – Sensitization
Schools, Colleges, Corporates, Communities
A – Assistance
Quitlines, Apps, Online Consults, E-pharmacy
V – Volunteering
Training of Tobacco MARSHALS
E – Enforcement
Tobacco-free zones, Policy Advocacy
We also showcased easy self-screening tools like:
🔹 The Chota Daana Test
🔹 The Four Finger Mouth Opening Test
💬 Community Speaks, Support Rises
Several community leaders stepped forward:
Mr. Arun Ku Rath and Mrs. Gitu Rath committed full support to expand the SAVE the youth campaign across Odisha and in Odia communities in Delhi.
Mr. Tanmay Das proposed setting up a dedicated Oral Cancer Centre, managed by ICanCaRe.
Mr. Prerit Gupta (Gupta Distributors) pledged sponsorship for the Tobacco MARSHAL starter kits.
Also present was Dr. Mami Parija, Devi Awardee and founder of Amrit Dhara Palliative Unit, who strongly advocated prevention care.
🔬 Innovation Meets Compassion
I demonstrated TrisCaRe—our patented device to help individuals with restricted mouth opening (a common side-effect of tobacco use). Combined with our ICanCaRe App, trained specialists, and community outreach, this forms a robust, scalable model for real change.
🚀 Be Part of the Movement
We’re not just treating cancer—we’re preventing it.
You can be part of the solution:
✅ Volunteer as a Tobacco MARSHAL ✅ Help establish a cessation or screening centre ✅ Adopt the SAVE model in your school, office, or city ✅ Support us in taking this to the last mile
🧩 Let’s shift from “Why me?” to “Not me!”
💬 Final Word
The passion is high, the need is urgent, and the execution has begun. Together, we can make Odisha a global example in cancer prevention and youth wellness.
📩 For partnerships, volunteering, or program details:
