Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling told the state parliament on Monday that during the past three years, 1,39,69,439 persons in Odisha have had cancer screenings, and 26,666 of them have been diagnosed with the disease.
In response to a query from Sarada Prasad Nayak, an MLA from Rourkela, Minister Mahaling stated that more than 1.39 crore persons have had cancer testing performed.
Minister Mahaling also highlighted several proactive measures being taken by the state government to combat cancer, which include:
Screening at the grassroot level
Several screening techniques are used at the sub-center Ayushman Arogya Mandir level, such as Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) for breast cancer, Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid Application (VIA) for cervical cancer, and Oral Visual Examination (OVA) for cancer of the oral cavity.
Improved screening resources
ANMs, CHOs, and Medical Officers at Primary Health Centers and Community Health Centers have been given the necessary tools and supplies for general cancer screening.
Healthcare Trainings
Medical officers at different health centers are being trained in the use of FNAC, True-cut Biopsy for breast cancer, cervical cancer testing, and PAP-SMEAR for the early diagnosis of oral cancer.
Centers for Tertiary Healthcare
Now, ten tertiary health care centers provide free early cancer screening using cutting-edge diagnostic techniques like mammograms, PET-CT scans, MRIs, and CT scans.
Comprehensive cancer care
All government cancer facilities offer free cancer treatments, including as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care. Additionally, the Niramaya Yojana provides free anti-cancer medications.
Awareness among the public
All throughout Odisha, print and electronic media have carried advertisements on cancer awareness and the services that are accessible.
Free Chemotherapy and Radiation
Leading hospitals like AHPGIC Cuttack, VIMSAR Burla, and MKCG MCH Berhampur offer free radiotherapy. Additionally, the state’s Capital Hospital Bhubaneswar, District Head Hospitals, and a number of day care centers offer chemotherapy services. To provide high-quality care, these facilities are staffed by medical professionals.
