A new initiative known as RaKSA (Rapid Cancer Screening Access) has been introduced in Maharashtra to accelerate cancer detection and improve accessibility. This program is designed to facilitate early diagnosis and timely treatment amidst a rising number of cancer cases nationwide.
The initiative has developed a specialized kit of diagnostic devices aimed at screening for breast, cervical, and oral cancers. Currently, the iBreastExam device is utilized in government medical colleges and hospitals for breast cancer screenings. Following its success, there are plans to extend the program to include screenings for cervical and oral cancers.
This technology allows for cancer detection in a matter of minutes through a simple photograph taken with a mobile phone. The process is designed to be quick, painless, and efficient.
To date, over one lakh women in Maharashtra have been screened for breast cancer using the iBreastExam device, which is non-invasive and free from radiation. Encouraged by these results, hospitals are now preparing to implement the cervAIcal device for cervical cancer and the OrCA device for oral cancer.
Under a door-to-door screening campaign, community health workers will use these portable diagnostic tools to conduct cervical and oral cancer tests quickly using smartphones. The images captured can be shared with doctors for immediate evaluation and advice.
Bhaumik Sanghvi, COO of UE LifeSciences, emphasized that the RaKSA initiative aligns with the government”s National Cancer Control Programme by extending screening services to Primary Health Centres (PHCs). He noted that both the OrCA and cervAIcal devices utilize real-time imaging technology and are suitable for use in clinics as well as remote areas.
The response to these devices has been overwhelmingly positive across Maharashtra, including in Mumbai, where the Rotary Club has set a goal to screen one lakh women using the iBreastExam technology, following its success in breast cancer screening.
Experts stress the importance of early detection in cancer treatment. Dr. Tushar Palve, Superintendent of Cama and Albless Hospital, stated, “Breast screening through the iBreastExam device has become simple and efficient. Once the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) grants approval, the handheld diagnostic tools cervAIcal and OrCA will also be introduced for cervical and oral cancer screening. These tools will enable early detection and ensure timely treatment.”
The RaKSA initiative is focused on empowering community health workers to conduct screenings for breast, cervical, and oral cancers in a single visit. This approach is expected to greatly enhance early detection rates in areas where conventional screening methods may be unavailable or prohibitively expensive, ultimately contributing to life-saving preventive care.
