Thu Nov 07 13:59:49 UTC 2024: ## Andhra Pradesh Launches Statewide Cancer Screening Drive

**Vijayawada, November 7, 2024:** In a bid to combat the rising cancer burden, the Andhra Pradesh government announced the launch of a comprehensive statewide cancer screening program. The initiative, aimed at reducing cancer-related mortality and morbidity, will target individuals above the age of 18.

Speaking at the Secretariat, Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav highlighted the alarming statistics, citing the Global Cancer Observatory report which revealed 14 lakh cancer cases and 9 lakh cancer-related deaths in India in 2022. Andhra Pradesh alone reported 73,536 cases and 40,307 cancer-related deaths in the same year.

The Minister emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment, particularly for preventable cancers such as breast, oral, and cervical cancer. He emphasized that the new screening program would focus on these three cancers.

The program will cover an estimated two crore women above 18 for breast cancer screening, 1.63 crore women above 30 for cervical cancer screening, and 3.94 crore individuals above 18 for oral cancer screening. Approximately 18,000 medical staff, including ANMs, medical officers, doctors, and specialists, will be involved in the six-to-nine-month drive.

The three-level screening process will involve:

* **Door-to-door visits:** ASHAs and ANMs will educate the public about cancer and conduct initial screening for breast and oral cancers. They will also encourage women to undergo cervical cancer screening at village health clinics (VHCs).
* **VHC screening:** Medical officers at VHCs will conduct further examination for those with symptoms.
* **Medical college referral:** Individuals with more complex needs will be referred to medical colleges for specialized testing, with a dedicated “green channel” for fast-tracked care.

The Minister stressed that the government is actively engaging with celebrities to raise public awareness about the importance of cancer screening. Posters will be displayed in public areas, and advertisements will run on television and social media platforms.

Addressing concerns about recent diarrheal outbreaks, the Minister emphasized that the current government, in power for just four months, is working to address these issues and ensure the safety of the public.

The launch of this ambitious screening program marks a significant step towards combating cancer in Andhra Pradesh, providing crucial support for early diagnosis and treatment.

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