Andhra Pradesh to Launch Statewide Cancer Screening in August

This initiative aims to detect oral, cervical, and breast cancers early, targeting women aged 30 and above.

The Andhra Pradesh health department has announced the launch of a village-level cancer screening program across the state in August. This initiative aims to detect oral, cervical, and breast cancers early, targeting women aged 30 and above.

The health department has already initiated training for field-level medical officers and healthcare workers on cancer screening techniques. 

Sharing insights, Sajjamala Venkateswara, the health and family welfare commissioner, said, "The trained preventive oncology teams have completed training programs for district TOTs (specialist doctors from the districts) at their respective medical colleges by June 10.” 

Per Venkateswara, Andhra Pradesh has become the first state in India to launch a village-level cancer screening program. The program is being implemented by the health department with the help of its extensive network of community health officers. 

“The screening will focus on oral, cervical, and breast cancers. The health department has also started training community health officers and other healthcare workers on cancer and mental health screening," he added.

Extensive Training & Support Network

The health department has appointed nodal officers in all districts to ensure effective implementation. These officers will supervise the district-level training of trainers (TOTs) on cancer screening.

These nodal officers in all districts will supervise the district-level training of trainers (TOTs) on cancer screening. With this initiative, AP claims to be the first state in the country to start cancer and mental health screening centers at the village level.

Collaboration with Medical Colleges and Hospitals

Furthermore, the state has prepared a robust framework to support the screening initiative in collaboration with the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Center. Specialists from the preventive oncology teams of the 21 medical colleges have been sensitized and trained. These specialists, in turn, have conducted training sessions for district-level trainers, ensuring a trickle-down effect of expertise and knowledge.

The state's comprehensive approach includes deploying an extensive network of community health officers to carry out the screenings. These officers, already embedded in the community, will be pivotal in reaching the target population and ensuring that screenings are conducted efficiently and effectively.

Addressing a Significant Health Burden

Oral, cervical, and breast cancers account for nearly 40% of the total cancer caseload in Andhra Pradesh. Early detection through screening is crucial in reducing the burden of these diseases. The village-level screening program aims to identify cases early, allowing for timely treatment and better outcomes.

Commissioner Venkateswar emphasized, "Early detection is key to reducing the burden of cancer. Our program aims to reach women in the state's most remote areas, providing them access to essential health screenings that can save lives."

With the implementation of this program, Andhra Pradesh sets a precedent for other states in India. The integration of cancer and mental health screening at the village level demonstrates a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing both physical and mental health needs.

As the program launches in August, the health department remains committed to ensuring the initiative reaches its targets. The appointment of nodal officers and the extensive training provided to healthcare workers are critical components in the successful rollout of the screening program.