Government's Initiative to Combat Cervical Cancer in India
Significant Screening Efforts Underway
New Delhi, July 26: In a bid to address the increasing incidence of cervical cancer and associated fatalities in India, over 10.18 crore women aged 30 and older have undergone screening at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), as reported to Parliament during the current Monsoon session.
India represents 25% of the global cervical cancer mortality rate, primarily due to late diagnoses.
According to data from the National NCD Portal, as of July 20, 10.18 crore women from an eligible demographic of 25.42 crore females aged 30 and above have been screened for cervical cancer,” stated Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav.
“This achievement underscores the government's dedication to delivering comprehensive and preventive healthcare through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs,” he added.
This initiative is part of a broader population-based program aimed at screening, preventing, and managing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) under the National Health Mission (NHM).
Targeting women aged 30 to 65, the screening primarily utilizes Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) conducted at Sub-Health Centres and Primary Health Centres by trained health personnel. Cases that test positive for VIA are referred to advanced facilities for further diagnostic procedures, Jadhav explained in a written response in the Lok Sabha.
To enhance grassroots prevention of cervical cancer, the government has enlisted Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), who play a vital role in identifying at-risk individuals using Community Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC) forms. They encourage women to participate in regular health screenings at AAMs.
Additionally, ASHAs are instrumental in raising awareness about the significance of early detection and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The Ministry also initiated a time-sensitive NCD Screening Campaign from February 20 to March 31 to boost screening efforts for individuals aged 30 and above. The success of this campaign has significantly contributed to the current screening achievements, Jadhav noted.