Tue Feb 04 16:29:16 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Launches Year-Long Cancer Screening Campaign
**Thiruvananthapuram, February 4, 2025** – Kerala launched a year-long cancer screening and detection campaign, “Ayogyam, Anandam- Keep Cancers Away,” aimed at identifying and treating individuals at risk of developing cancer. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the initiative, emphasizing the need to address misconceptions and financial barriers that prevent timely cancer care.
The campaign, spearheaded by the State Health Department, will focus on women’s cancers, particularly breast and cervical, from February 4th to March 8th, intensifying screening efforts during this period. Mr. Vijayan highlighted the rising global cancer rates and the increasing breast cancer mortality in Kerala, stressing the importance of early detection.
The Kerala government is actively expanding cancer care infrastructure. Cancer drugs are being provided at up to 88% lower than market prices across all districts. In addition to modernizing existing facilities, 25 government hospitals have been equipped for follow-up cancer treatment. Efforts are underway to provide HPV vaccination against cervical cancer and establish breast cancer screening facilities in all districts, including mammogram and Pap Smear tests at taluk and district hospitals. Mammogram screenings are already available in eight government hospitals.
Mr. Vijayan urged citizens to participate in early cancer screening and spread awareness among their families and friends. Health Minister Veena George echoed this call, urging prioritization of health and early screening. Actor Manju Warrier, the campaign’s goodwill ambassador, also attended the launch event.
First Piper 