WinZO and Tata Memorial Hospital establish India’s first genetic counseling facility

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WinZO, a social gaming platform, has launched an initiative, ‘Play to Prevent Cancer’, for  early cancer detection efforts through genetic counseling. The campaign successfully raised funds for India’s first low-cost genetic counseling and testing lab at Tata Memorial Hospital’s Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research, and Education in Cancer (ACTREC).

Collaboration Between WinZO and Tata Memorial Hospital

The initiative, which tapped into WinZO‘s vast 200-million-strong user base encouraged players to contribute during a dedicated “Play to Prevent Cancer” hour. WinZO’s team of 200 employees matched the user contributions, amplifying the total funds raised. These donations will be directed toward training genetic counselors at Tata Memorial Hospital, a l step in advancing India’s cancer prevention capabilities.

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality in India, with ~13 million deaths between 2000 and 2019, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention and early detection. Global cancer cases are expected to surge from 20 million in 2022 to 35 million annually by 2050. Genetic counseling, a key intervention, has emerged as a transformative tool to mitigate cancer risks.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Rajiv Sarin, Head of the Cancer Genetics Clinic at Tata Memorial Hospital, emphasized the importance of building a robust pool of skilled genetic counselors:

“I thank WinZO and its users for their invaluable contributions. These professionals will provide personalized, evidence-based genetic counseling to millions of Indians, addressing critical gaps in early detection and care. Well-trained counselors are indispensable in maximizing the potential of infrastructure and resources.”

The funds will also support skill development in genetic counseling, gene screening, and family counseling. This investment is expected to expand access to genetic testing for Indians across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, addressing a pressing public health challenge.

Addressing Mental Health in Cancer Patients Through Gaming

WinZO’s initiative is not limited to raising funds; its platform has also proven to be a surprising yet effective tool for mental health support among cancer patients. Data highlights that up to 20% of cancer patients experience depression, with 10% battling anxiety. Casual social games on WinZO’s platform offer a unique avenue to address these challenges, providing distraction, reducing isolation, and enhancing cognitive resilience.

Nachiket Mor, a scientist at The Banyan Academy of Leadership in Mental Health, highlighted the potential of gaming in healthcare:

“Online gaming offers a promising yet underutilized tool to support mental well-being. It encourages resilience, improves treatment adherence, and educates patients in an engaging, non-intimidating way. Gaming can be transformative for both patients and their families.”

Cancer survivors agreed, saying that WinZO’s games helped them cope with anxiety and depression during their treatment. One survivor noted: “Playing games on WinZO was a huge relief. The fast-paced games redirected my focus, helping me stay positive and mentally agile during a challenging time.”

By integrating awareness, funding, and therapeutic support, this campaign is positioned to make a lasting impact in the fight against cancer.

As the burden of cancer continues to rise, collaborations like these highlight the potential of innovative partnerships in addressing public health crises, fostering hope, and building resilience among those affected.

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