MUMBAI | SBI Life Insurance has set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® for the largest mosaic made of breast self-examination aids to urgently promote early detection of breast cancer among Indian women. The initiative, part of its 'Thanks-A-Dot' campaign, aims to normalize breast health as a "living room conversation" in every household.
The record-setting mosaic was created using 1,191 'Hug of Life' hot water bags to spell out the message: "Take A Breast Self-Exam with Thanks-A-Dot." The 'Hug of Life' bag, a tactile learning aid introduced by SBI Life in 2023, is the world’s first hot water bag designed with three-dimensional lumps to help women practice safe self-examination.
The announcement highlighted a critical health challenge in India:
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian women.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reports that over 60% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, severely limiting treatment options.
However, up to 90% of cases are curable if detected early.
Mr. Ravindra Sharma, Chief of Brand, Corp. Comm. & CSR at SBI Life, stated that the initiative is intended to break down cultural barriers and stigma that often cause women to neglect their own health. The record, he said, is a milestone aimed at encouraging women to make self-examination a regular habit, reflecting the philosophy of "Apne Liye, Apno Ke Liye" (For yourself, for your loved ones).
Indian actress and breast cancer survivor Mahima Chaudhry attended the event, emphasizing the importance of regular self-exams in her own battle with the disease. The record-breaking event was also witnessed by Mr. Amit Jhingran, MD & CEO of SBI Life, and Mr. Swapnil Dangarikar, Official Adjudicator for GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS®.