logo
Free cancer screening camps evoke poor response in Tiruchi; health officials blame it on ignorance, social stigma

Free cancer screening camps evoke poor response in Tiruchi; health officials blame it on ignorance, social stigma

The Hindu21-06-2025
Despite the growing need for cancer awareness and early detection, free cancer screening camps set up at the health centres in Tiruchi have evoked a lukewarm response from residents.
Aimed at screening people aged over 18 for oral cancer and women aged over 30 for breast cancer and cervical cancer and providing appropriate treatment for recovery, the camps are yet to pick up pace despite being launched on May 12.
According to M. Vijay Chandran, City Health Officer, several factors contribute to the low turnout. 'Lack of awareness about preventive cancer screening and its benefits is a major deterrent. Many people are hesitant to get screened for fear of diagnosis and social stigma associated with cancer.'
The screening camps are set up in all 18 urban primary health centres and 36 health and wellness centres in the city. Each centre has a doctor, four staff nurses, six urban health nurses, and woman health volunteers. Training sessions were conducted for the doctors and medical staff. Urban health nurses and woman health volunteers are engaged in a door-to-door awareness campaign to sensitise people and invite them to the screening camp.
With the data recorded in the Family Registration, which contains complete details of the persons in the family, their age, and other information, they reach out to the people and hand over invite cards. They are asked to bring the filled-in cards at the time of screening.
As of June 21, about 14,125 invites were given, of them, 6,270 people have been screened at the centres. Among the screened, 111 were referred to hospitals for diagnosing, but only seven had gone in for a follow-up.
'Biopsy for cervical cancer was done for seven patients and there are no confirmed cases of cancer. A follow-up to check if the patients had visited the referred facility for screening is planned,' said Dr. Chandran.
Steps have been taken to intensify the awareness campaign and enrol the people under the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme. The team has been instructed to screen patients enrolled at the UPHCs, beneficiaries of the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam scheme, and Corporation officials and workers.
Special cancer screening counters have been set up at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital for a hassle-free treatment experience.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Stillborn case: SHRC recommends compensation, filling of vacancies with medical staff
Stillborn case: SHRC recommends compensation, filling of vacancies with medical staff

The Hindu

time12 hours ago

  • The Hindu

Stillborn case: SHRC recommends compensation, filling of vacancies with medical staff

Flagging the shortage of staff in hospitals, the State Human Rights Commission on Monday observed the continuing delay in filling vacant posts and the non-creation of new posts were creating a crisis in the Tamil Nadu health sector. It further mentioned it was receiving complaints throughout the State regarding 'medical negligence' of doctors and hospital staff while treating the patients. 'More than 4,000 rural health nurse vacancies remain unfilled in 8,488 sub-health centres in Tamil Nadu. With 50% of the posts lying vacant, the workload of the rural health nurses in service has increased drastically,' SHRC member V. Kannadasan observed in an order. The Commission recommended the State government to pay a compensation of ₹5 lakh to a pregnant woman's kin who was reportedly forced to clean up her blood before boarding an ambulance. Even as it appreciated various programmes of the State government, the Commission observed: 'Due to the shortage of doctors and nurses in government hospitals in various districts including Villupuram, there is a delay in providing immediate treatment to patients. Activists also criticise that there is only one doctor in many primary health centers. An environment has also emerged where government doctors are psychologically affected due to low salaries and high workload.' The Commission recommended the State government to take necessary steps to appoint more doctors, nurses and other medical staff, especially in Primary Health Centers in the village level round the clock throughout the State. It also recommended necessary steps to provide more ambulance services to give special attention to pregnant women to reach hospitals in time. The Commission also appreciated the efforts taken by the Tamil Nadu government on its achievement projects throughout the State and recalled the introduction of various flagship schemes for maternal and child health and control of infectious diseases. It also appreciated the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme and the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam scheme. 'The government of Tamil Nadu is taking various steps to reduce maternal mortality. However, the target of reducing maternal mortality can be achieved only if there are sufficient numbers of obstetricians in hospitals,' the Commission said. The restrictions in the Chief Minister's Insurance Scheme should be removed, it said. Action should be taken on complaints that some private hospitals participating in the scheme are using the entire insurance amount and charging additional fees for it, it said. The Commission made these observations while dealing with a complaint from one K. Devamani. Her pregnant daughter K. Subulakshmi was admitted to Murugeri Primary Health Centre on April 26, 2021. While the 108 ambulance arrived to take her, auxiliary nurse midwife Prabhavathi from the PHC shouted at her and demanded that she cleaned up her blood from the bed before leaving. The ANM did not allow it even after the ambulance staff insisted that the patient was to be shifted out at once. Due to the delay, they were not able to reach the Government Medical College Hospital at Mundiyambakkam on time and the foetus did not survive. The patient also contracted COVID-19 infection. The complainant alleged inhumane actions on the part of government employees and further sought for an investigation into the incident. During the hearing, the Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine submitted a detailed report. It said the ANM had to attend to two patients simultaneously, one of them injured in an accident. It was submitted that the patient's attender was not forced to clean up the blood. Considering the oral and documentary evidence of the parties and also findings given in the enquiry report, the Commission said it was categorically established that the patient's had a stillborn due to inordinate delay in the Primary Health Centre where the patient and attender were asked to clean up the blood before boarding the ambulance.

Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam, beneficial to lowest income groups, has severe lacunae in system
Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam, beneficial to lowest income groups, has severe lacunae in system

The Hindu

time2 days ago

  • The Hindu

Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam, beneficial to lowest income groups, has severe lacunae in system

A bed-ridden former ward member's wife S. Vasanthi, 70, of Sakkimangalam, a Narikuravar community habitat in Madurai east taluk, lives on the diabetic medicines supplied by the Women Health Volunteers (WHVs) of Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam (MTM), a novel initiative of the Tamil Nadu government. For the widow, who lives in a shanty house made of plastic and torn bedsheets, if not for the two-months of medicines supply by MTM volunteers, her sugar level would shoot up endangering her life. The MTM scheme has saved her life and penny; however, it has failed to identify any new diabetic person in the same locality. Chinapaapa, 75, who lives alone in her hut in the same locality, says she was not tested nor has any health volunteer visited her to identify any health problems. Her other neighbours, recollecting a health camp which was arranged at the village mid-point near a ration shop about a year ago, say they could not walk up to the camp as most of them were not informed or alerted earlier. The prime aim of the MTM scheme started in 2021 was to enable home-based screening and drug delivery at the doorsteps of beneficiaries. Though the scheme through its 20,000 workforce reportedly reached 5.50 crore individuals through screening - one crore first-time beneficiaries and 3.20 crore repeat - service beneficiaries – the actual follow-ups would be lesser, as per World Health Organization (WHO) data. By focusing on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, high blood pressure, psychological problems, mouth and breast cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), the WHV, under the scheme, were mandated to visit every household falling under their jurisdiction and carry out the tests required for identification. According to the Tamil Nadu State Planning Commission's survey report on the MTM scheme, the scheme has halved the out-of-pocket medical expenditure for the lowest income groups. The report added, 'Before the scheme started operating, the poorest income group in the survey had to spend over 10% of their monthly family income on treatment of diabetes and hypertension. Once the scheme rolled out, spending on the treatment has more than halved.' Though the scheme has recorded remarkable achievements like bringing the low-income population with diabetes and hypertension under the ambit of government record, keeping them in the government medication records, slowdown of the works owing to insufficient volunteers and irregular medicine supply have derailed the system in certain areas, if not all. A WHV at Keelavalavu, requesting anonymity, pointed out the practical difficulties in achieving the assigned duty like dispensing hypertension, diabetes and other essential medications in colour coded paper bags and checking BP and blood glucose at the time of drug delivery at the households. 'Many a times, due to the workload coupled with the absence of essential drugs and devices, people will be asked to visit nearby health centres like PHC, Health Sub-Centre or Community Health Centre for getting their monthly medical supply and routine check-up,' she adds. Barring a few, many fail to visit the hospital due to several reasons, she notes. A differently abled person named R. Rajasekar, residing in Malaipatti panchayat, falling under Madurai West Panchayat Union, says that a year ago, a medical camp was conducted near his village and he too took the test and learnt that he had diabetes at its initial stage. 'Tablets were given, and I was given diet instructions to keep the blood glucose level under control. I also receive the monthly tablets through a volunteer or a neighbour, who visits the nearby hospital for their routine check up,' he adds. As the volunteers would not visit his house for monthly check-up and he would be asked to visit the hospital, he has not undergone the blood glucose level test for more than a year, he says. It is the lacuna in the system that obstructs the otherwise achievable result of the scheme, says a PHC doctor near Melur. The ground-level difficulties for the WHVs, who are paid close to ₹5,000 per month, were that they would be asked to screen at least 50 people per day in their region, the doctor adds. 'In addition to screening, they should also update their data and deliver medicines according to the public needs every day. This much is expected from the volunteers with just a bare minimum payment,' the doctor states. Resonating with the doctor, the Keelavalavu WHV says, at times when the device to screen patients gets repaired or the battery drains off, they had to spend their own money to buy new batteries or to repair it. 'As there is no travel allowance, that also goes out of our pockets,' she adds. Moreover, the doctor says that the on-ground issues like non-availability of the working population in the households and unavailability of men in houses for screening or periodical checking leave them out of the cycle. An interim report of the State government intended to address the gaps specified carrying out campaign mode of screening for early detection and increased screening in the industries through collaboration with labour department to cover the working population, the doctor notes. Such far-reaching aims of the scheme, in the absence of a vigorous working plan and scheduled supply of medicines and equipment, cannot be achieved, the doctor observes. A. Veronica Mary, a health activist based in Madurai, says: 'Though the scheme gives a perception that it is a success, it could only be for a short term.' 'Our State's rural health system, which is structured around a network of PHCs, CHCs and hospitals, is already well-connected and is robust enough to cover the villages,' she adds. As the 1,700 plus PHCs and more than 8,500 HSCs in the State were based on the 2011 population census, only doubling it would enhance the overall coverage of healthcare. 'The MTM scheme linked with the PHCs will fail if the PHCs workforce is not enhanced and monitoring is not improved,' she notes. PHCs, which are already reeling under an acute shortage of doctors, nurses and health workers, were additionally burdened with documenting and data recording works. In this situation, MTM scheme may not be successful in a year or so, if the PHCs and CHCs are not strengthened with necessary staff and resources, he notes. 'The government should review its performance and release a white paper on the scheme. Only through it, the reach of the programme could be studied and improved,' Ms. Mary states. Many of the villages and rural households were still untouched by the scheme and covering it all would require self-evaluation and introspection, she adds.

Monsoon – The Season of Healing
Monsoon – The Season of Healing

Fashion Value Chain

time5 days ago

  • Fashion Value Chain

Monsoon – The Season of Healing

As per wellness science, monsoons are always the best time for wellness over any other season SwaSwara by CGH Earth offers tailored monsoon well -being programs in Gokarna , Karnataka A new kind of luxury travel is emerging; a growing and unmistakable trend where travellers are choosing off beat locations for their wellness breaks. In a world, where people are reaching digital fatigue and work burn-out, they are chasing meaningful travel and soul -soothing locations. At the heart of this shift is SwaSwara a CGH Earth Wellness property in Gokarna. SwaSwara is a wellness sanctuary and ideally suited for seekers of nature, solitude, and inner healing and there is no better time to do this than the Indian Monsoon- a season overlooked but deeply powerful, for a mindful wellness journey. SwaSwara, CGH Earth According to surveys and reports, wellness tourism is growing 1.5 times faster than general tourism, A McKinsey 2024 report confirms that 70% leisure travellers are seeking wellness experiences that improve their physical and mental wellbeing. Ayurveda and Modern Wellness science will both agree that monsoon is the best time for healing, detox and emotional reset. According to Ayurvedic texts, the increase in moisture and cooler temperatures, open up the skin's pores, which help soften bodily tissues making it mor receptive to treatments. The Panchakarma program is 38% more effective during monsoon months according to Ayurveda Research Foundation. CGH Earth Wellness guests also agree that they feel far more mentally rejuvenated during monsoon season over the other months, citing better sleep and a peaceful serene environment. SwaSwara – Om Beach 'Guests at SwaSwara have reported better sleep, improved digestion and enhanced mental clarity within days of arriving during monsoon months. The natural stillness of the season aligns beautifully with the goals of wellness, slowing down, grounding the nervous system, and restoring balance,' saysMini Chandran, Head Strategic Alliances and Product Development for CGH Earth Wellness. The search for balance is complete when you form a deep connection with nature and yourself – meditate on birdsongs, explore your creative side through art and pottery, understand the inner workings of healthy cooking, commit to the practice of Yoga, and cleanse your body with the help of Ayurveda.' she adds. Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea , SwaSwara comes alive in the rains. Located on the serene shores of Om Beach, the resort is a sanctuary for those who are in search of a restorative wellness holiday. Swa Wellbeing is about rejuvenating the SwaSwara way. Based on the concepts of Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, and wholesome cuisine, the programme is a carefully curated inward journey. The itinerary blends the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda, Naturopathy, delicious healthy gourmet dishes, transformative power of yoga, creative expression of art and experiences like forest bathing to create an immersive healing experience. SwaSwara does not believe in rigid regimes. Instead, it invites guests to relax and take a deep breath, listen to their body and inner voices, supported by nature's quiet rhythms. CGH Earth Wellness Centres are pioneers in offering curated Ayurveda and Naturopathy healing practices designed for enhancing physical health, mental clarity, emotional balance and various tools to manage stress and overall well- being. Through targeted therapies, corrective medicines, appropriate diet, yoga, meditation and spiritual practices, a tailored program is created to cleanse, correct and rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. When it Rains, You Heal. SwaSwara is offering exclusive monsoon retreats spanning 3 days to 21 days, curated to your specifications. To learn more about these programs and book your stay at one of the centers, visit our website About CGH Earth Experience Wellness The art of healing meets the science of health at CGH Earth Experience Wellness – with experiences that heal your body, mind and soul. Combining the power of ancient medicinal systems and traditional therapeutic practices, CGH Earth Wellness offers holistic healthcare based on Ayurveda, Naturopathy and Yoga. It also addresses ones overall state of wellbeing through experiences that are fulfilling and enriching for the self. All of the transformative experiences offered by CGH Earth Wellness are intrinsically nourished by the core values that are at the heart of all the group's hospitality and healthcare. The CGH Earth Group believes that operating with environmental sensitivity, including and benefiting local community and adopting the local ethos are the only ways to revive, sustain and thrive as a global collective. A pioneer in responsible tourism in India and with a credible background spanning over five decades in offering uniquely immersive travel experiences, CGH Earth diversified into wellness with the start of Ayurveda Healthcare 17 years back at Kalari Kovilakom, followed by Kalari Rasayana. Subsequently, Prakriti Shakti was started in 2018, which offers naturopathy healthcare, another system of holistic healing with roots in indigenous wisdom. These centres are certified and accredited by NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare providers). While the Ayurveda and Naturopathy healing centres primarily addressed the body, SwaSwara was CGH Earth's quest towards redefining the meaning of a true holiday. Embraced by the wilderness on the seashore of Om beach, SwaSwara addressed the mind by offering rejuvenating and immersive experiences to release, re-focus and recalibrate the self.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store