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Introduction
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women in India, with an alarming rate of late-stage diagnoses. In Hyderabad city, where healthcare access varies significantly across socio-economic classes, Mahita NGO has taken a bold step in bridging the gap with its breast cancer screening initiative. This story highlights the transformative impact of early detection and community-driven awareness campaigns.
The Problem
Breast cancer accounts for 14% of all cancers in women in India, with the incidence rate steadily rising. According to recent studies, nearly one in 28 women is likely to develop breast cancer during her lifetime. However, over 60% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to poor survival rates. In Hyderabad, underserved communities face multiple barriers, including limited access to diagnostic facilities, lack of awareness, and cultural stigma.
Mahita’s Intervention
Recognizing the urgent need for action, Mahita NGO launched its breast cancer screening program in 2022, focusing on early detection and education. The initiative involved:
- Setting up mobile screening camps in low-income neighborhoods.
- Partnering with leading healthcare providers for free mammograms and follow-up consultations.
- Conducting awareness sessions to debunk myths and promote self-examination practices.
- Training local women as health ambassadors to sustain long-term impact within their communities.
“Early detection saves lives. Through this program, we aim to empower women with knowledge and resources to prioritize their health,” said Dr. Anjali Reddy, an oncologist and advisor to Mahita’s initiative.
The Transformation
Since its inception, the breast cancer screening program has screened over 10,000 women across Hyderabad, identifying 450 cases requiring further evaluation. Of these, 120 cases were confirmed as early-stage breast cancer, giving these women a significant chance of recovery.
Beneficiary Testimonial
“I never thought about getting checked until the Mahita camp came to our colony. They explained everything so clearly, and the test was quick and painless. I’m so grateful because they caught my cancer early,” said Shanti Devi, a 42-year-old participant who is now undergoing treatment.
Key Outcomes:
- Awareness Reach: Over 30,000 women educated on breast health and self-examination.
- Community Impact: Increased acceptance and participation in screenings by 40%.
- Capacity Building: Trained 200 community health workers to promote awareness and support follow-up care.
Expert Comments and Insights
“The prevalence of breast cancer is rising in urban areas like Hyderabad, but programs like Mahita’s are crucial for reversing this trend. Screening and education significantly reduce mortality rates by detecting cancers early, when treatment is most effective,” emphasized Dr. Ramesh Babu, a senior oncologist at Apollo Hospitals.
Data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) projects that by 2025, India will witness a 12% increase in breast cancer cases unless preventive measures are widely adopted.
Impact and Future Aspirations
Mahita’s breast cancer screening program has proven to be a life-changing intervention for thousands of women. The NGO plans to:
- Expand the initiative to cover peri-urban and rural areas in Telangana.
- Introduce advanced AI-powered diagnostic tools for faster results.
- Collaborate with government agencies to integrate breast cancer screening into primary healthcare systems.
“Our vision is to ensure that no woman in Hyderabad goes undiagnosed due to lack of access or awareness,” said Priya Joshi, Program Director at Mahita.
Call to Action
Your support can help us reach more women and save more lives. Join us in the fight against breast cancer by:
- Donating to fund additional screening camps and equipment.
- Volunteering to spread awareness in your community.
- Partnering with us to expand our reach and impact.
Together, we can create a healthier, cancer-free future for women in Hyderabad and beyond.
Closing Remarks
The success of Mahita’s breast cancer screening initiative underscores the power of collective action. With your support, we can continue breaking barriers and building hope, one life at a time.
