Varanasi Launches Mobile Breast Cancer Screening Initiative
Varanasi took a significant step towards women's healthcare on Wednesday. The city launched the Namo Shakti Rath from the divisional commissioner's auditorium. This initiative focuses on timely detection of breast cancer in women. It also aims to strengthen preventive healthcare services across the district.
Inspired by Vision of Healthy Women
The program draws inspiration from the Prime Minister's vision of "Healthy Woman – Empowered Family". It represents an important move towards women-centric healthcare in Varanasi. Rajya Sabha MP and ITV founder Kartikeya Sharma addressed the gathering during the launch event.
Sharma described the operation of the technologically advanced Namo Shakti Rath as a historic initiative. He emphasized that the vision of a developed India requires healthy families. Healthy families cannot exist without healthy women, he stated clearly.
Addressing Cancer Statistics Through Screening
Sharma shared concerning cancer statistics during his address. He noted that approximately nine lakh people die from cancer annually in India. A significant number of these cases involve breast cancer patients. This makes regular screening extremely important for women above 18 years of age.
The ITV Foundation has provided 20 Namo Shakti Rath vans specifically for Varanasi. Nine of these mobile units will operate in rural areas. Eleven vans will serve urban areas. These vehicles will travel directly to women in villages and city wards for screening purposes.
Community-Level Healthcare Delivery
With support from ASHA and Anganwadi workers, women will receive advance information about the screening drives. Health workers will actively encourage participation in the program. The initiative aims to deliver healthcare services at the community level using state-of-the-art technology.
Sharma explained that the program ensures access with dignity, respect and equal opportunity for all women. He added that the initiative would enhance health awareness while enabling early detection of breast cancer. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Officials Emphasize Women's Health Importance
District panchayat president Poonam Maurya spoke about the foundational role of women's health. She stated that a healthy woman forms the foundation of a healthy family. Maurya urged women to overcome hesitation and actively participate in the screening drive. She emphasized that participation benefits both individual women and their families' well-being.
Divisional commissioner S Rajalingam addressed changing lifestyle patterns during the event. He noted that modern lifestyles have increased the incidence of diseases like cancer. Rajalingam explained the technological capabilities of the Namo Shakti Rath.
Advanced Screening Technology
The mobile units feature technology-enabled machines that can detect early vascular changes related to breast cancer. These screenings occur without pain or physical contact. Rajalingam appealed for large-scale participation in the screening program to maximize its impact.
DM Satyendra Kumar provided operational details about the initiative. He confirmed that the mobile units would provide free breast cancer screening services. These screenings will occur in gram sabhas and urban wards on scheduled dates. This approach ensures wider coverage across the entire district of Varanasi.
Comprehensive District Coverage Planned
The program aims to reach women throughout Varanasi district through systematic scheduling. CDO Prakhar Kumar Singh attended the launch event. Chief medical officer Dr Rajesh Prasad was also present among other officials. Their participation underscores the district administration's commitment to this healthcare initiative.
Varanasi's Namo Shakti Rath program represents a practical approach to women's healthcare. It combines advanced technology with community outreach. The initiative addresses a critical health need while respecting women's dignity throughout the screening process.
