In a pioneering move, Andhra Pradesh is gearing up to launch a comprehensive cancer screening program across the state starting this August.

The initiative, spearheaded by the state's health department, aims to address oral, cervical, and breast cancers, collectively constituting nearly 40% of the state’s cancer cases.

Preparations are already in full swing, with field-level medical officers and healthcare workers undergoing rigorous training in cancer screening techniques.

Earlier, the health department conducted sensitization workshops for specialists from 21 medical colleges, in collaboration with the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Visakhapatnam.

These workshops equipped preventive oncology teams with the necessary skills to train district-level doctors, ensuring a robust implementation framework.

Commissioner of health and family welfare Sajjamala Venkateswar emphasized that Andhra Pradesh is leading the way as the first state in India to introduce village-level cancer screening.

The initiative leverages the state's extensive network of community health officers, who will play a pivotal role in conducting screenings and raising awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.

"The program will focus primarily on women aged 30 and above, targeting cervical and breast cancers," stated Venkateswar. "Nodal officers have been appointed in all districts to oversee the training of trainers (TOTs) for effective implementation at the grassroots level.

Moreover, Andhra Pradesh has taken a groundbreaking step by integrating mental health screening alongside cancer screening at village-level centers."

With these proactive measures, Andhra Pradesh aims not only to reduce the burden of cancer but also to promote holistic healthcare that addresses both physical and mental well-being at the community level.

The forthcoming launch in August marks a significant milestone in the state's commitment to public health and preventive care.

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