Andhra Pradesh Launches Cancer Survey for 41 Million Residents

The government of Andhra Pradesh is set to initiate a comprehensive door-to-door survey aimed at identifying individuals displaying symptoms of oral, cervical, or breast cancer. This extensive effort, named Non-Communicable Disease 4.0, will commence in October and target approximately 41 million people aged over 18.

The survey will be supported by a training programme starting on August 21, which will prepare around 18,000 personnel, including paramedical staff and doctors. The initiative will involve primary medical assessments and ensure medical treatment is accessible for those diagnosed with cancer symptoms.

A significant aspect of this survey is the involvement of senior doctors in the training phase. Local public representatives will also play a crucial role in gathering data through a series of 28 questions. For women, the questions will focus on symptoms related to oral, cervical, and breast cancer, while men will primarily be asked about oral cancer symptoms.

Preliminary tests will be conducted on individuals who exhibit symptoms. If initial screenings indicate potential cancer, patients will undergo further evaluations with the assistance of local senior doctors. Those diagnosed will be referred to the preventive medical oncology units located in teaching hospitals across the state, as stated by Satya Kumar Yadav, the health minister of Andhra Pradesh.

This cancer survey follows a previous initiative, NCD-3.0, conducted in November. That survey utilized a set of 225 questions and aimed to identify individuals suffering from various health conditions, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and cancer. However, the results of that survey were inconclusive, prompting the need for a more focused approach.

The Andhra Pradesh government aims to enhance early detection and treatment of cancer through this new initiative. By directly engaging with the community, the survey seeks to raise awareness and facilitate access to necessary medical care for those in need.