By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delh: Marking World Cancer Day, the Delhi government on Tuesday launched the CAPS (Cancer Awareness, Prevention & Screening) programme to strengthen early detection, prevention and access to cancer care across the Capital. The initiative has been rolled out by the Delhi State Cancer Institute (DSCI).
Inaugurating the programme, Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh said awareness and timely screening were critical to controlling the growing cancer burden. He noted that Delhi reports a higher number of cancer cases not only because of its advanced healthcare facilities that attract patients from neighbouring states, but also due to delays in testing and diagnosis.
Under CAPS, the government has adopted a community-based approach to make cancer screening accessible, affordable and routine, with a special focus on women. Mobile cancer screening vans equipped with mammography and HPV DNA testing facilities will be deployed at pre-informed locations as well as remote areas, allowing people to undergo screening without disrupting their daily routines.
A self-testing kit was also unveiled as part of the programme. The kit enables women to privately collect vaginal swab samples for HPV DNA testing, which will be analysed through RT-PCR. Test reports will be shared within a week, followed by medical consultation and treatment where required. Mammography results will also be communicated promptly, with follow-up care ensured for patients needing further intervention.
The initiative will also focus on cancer education, early detection practices, anti-tobacco awareness and facilitation of cervical cancer vaccination to reduce future risks.
The Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is implementing a broader strategy centred on prevention, early diagnosis and treatment. This includes regular screening camps, strengthened infrastructure and expanded diagnostic capacity, with special emphasis on breast, cervical and oral cancers. Services at the Delhi State Cancer Institute are also being enhanced.
“Prevention and early diagnosis remain our top priorities. We are expanding screening, strengthening infrastructure, and taking cancer care closer to every citizen,” Dr Singh said, adding that cancer prevention aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and is being treated with urgency by the state government.
The government said it remains committed to providing accessible, affordable and quality cancer care to all residents of the Capital through focused public health measures.
