Bihar's Health Minister Launches Free Cancer Screening Initiative in Patna
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Synopsis
On March 9, Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey inaugurated a free rural cancer screening program that spans 8,387 panchayats and 45,000 villages across 38 districts. The initiative aims to enhance early cancer detection and includes a supportive mobile app for remote consultations.
Key Takeaways
- Free cancer screening available in rural Bihar.
- Involves 8,387 panchayats and nearly 45,000 villages.
- Mobile app launched for facilitating consultations.
- Focus on early detection to improve treatment outcomes.
- Addresses social stigma associated with cancer in rural areas.
Patna, March 9 (NationPress) The Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey on Saturday launched a comprehensive free rural cancer screening initiative that encompasses 8,387 panchayats and nearly 45,000 villages across all 38 districts in the state.
The inauguration took place at the Prabhat Ranjan Diagnostic and Research Centre in Patna, marking a significant advancement in the realm of early cancer detection and treatment.
A specialized mobile app was introduced to streamline the screening process.
Through this program, cancer screenings will be offered at no cost in rural settings.
Minister Pandey highlighted the critical importance of early cancer detection and the necessity for awareness initiatives in Bihar.
He noted that numerous cases are diagnosed at advanced stages (Stage 3 or 4), which diminishes the chances of successful treatment.
Prabhat Ranjan, Director of the Prabhat Ranjan Diagnostic and Research Centre, stated, "This initiative will utilize a cancer screening mobile app. Villagers will be informed about the app through Mukhiya (village heads) and Panchayat Samiti members. The app will be installed on household smartphones to facilitate remote consultations. Real-time video calls with doctors will assist in identifying cancer symptoms at an early stage."
"Following detection, further medical assessments will be organized for suspected cases. Patients will receive complimentary treatment via the Ayushman Card and CM Medical Assistance Fund. Early detection has enabled many patients to overcome cancer," he added.
"Numerous cancer patients in rural regions tend to conceal their illness due to fear of social stigma. The app provides a platform for private consultations, motivating them to pursue treatment. Early detection alleviates the strain on Bihar's healthcare system, benefiting both government hospitals and society," he mentioned.
This program could potentially serve as a model for similar undertakings in other areas of India facing high cancer rates.
In conjunction with the cancer screening initiative, Bihar's inaugural Sleep Institute was also inaugurated to tackle sleep disorders.
Ranjan remarked that recent years have seen a rise in stress, depression, and lifestyle changes contributing to sleep-related health issues.
Patients from remote regions often face challenges in obtaining proper diagnosis and treatment.
The institute will offer specialized courses and research in the field of sleep medicine.
Dr. Rupam, who established Bihar's first private-sector electro-physiological lab, emphasized the increasing demand for sleep disorder treatments.
Bihar's free rural cancer screening and sleep disorder treatment programs represent notable advancements in healthcare.
These initiatives aim to enhance early disease detection, dismantle social stigmas, and improve healthcare accessibility for Bihar's 10 crore rural population.
