MP Medha Kulkarni flags concern of cancer among women in rural Maharashtra rises
Citing data from a recent Sanjivani health screening campaign conducted in the Hingoli district, she noted that over 14,500 women out of 2.93 lakh screened showed symptoms suggestive of cancer.
Raising the issue under Special Mentions in the Lok Sabha, Kulkarni described the findings as 'alarming' and called for immediate, targeted interventions by the Union government. 'This data underscores the urgent need for early detection, timely diagnosis, and accessible treatment, particularly in underserved rural areas,' she said later in an official statement issued on Monday.
According to official figures cited by Kulkarni, Maharashtra reported the second-highest number of cancer cases in the country in 2023, recording 1.21 lakh new cases—a marginal increase from 1.18 lakh in 2021. 'The rising burden points to a growing crisis, particularly among women in rural areas. Screening initiatives must be accompanied by robust follow-up care and medical infrastructure,' she said.
She proposed a four-point action plan, including the establishment of diagnostic facilities for mammography, cervical screening, and biopsy at primary health centres, and the deployment of mobile oncology units in remote areas to facilitate early intervention. She also advocated for targeted awareness campaigns to educate women on early warning signs and reduce stigma, along with the integration of services under existing health schemes such as Ayushman Bharat and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana to ensure comprehensive coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
Calling the situation a 'silent public health emergency', Kulkarni urged the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to adopt a multi-sectoral, sustained response to address the growing burden of cancer in the state.
'Early detection is only effective when it leads to timely care and better outcomes. We cannot afford a delay in ensuring this continuum of care,' she added.
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