Breast Cancer Screening Gains Momentum in Uttarakhand; Twice-Weekly Camps Launched in Pauri and Tehri Using Modern Technology

Major relief for women in hill areas as timely screening and treatment services become accessible closer to home

Dehradun | April 28, 2026: In a significant step towards strengthening women’s healthcare, the National Health Mission (NHM) has launched an advanced breast cancer screening initiative in Uttarakhand. To ensure early detection and timely treatment, modern-technology-based screening camps will now be organized twice a week in the districts of Pauri Garhwal and Tehri Garhwal. The initiative aims to address the rising incidence of breast cancer by enabling early diagnosis through accessible and reliable screening facilities.

Deployment of Modern Screening Devices

NHM Assistant Director Dr. Feeduzzafar stated that screening through advanced technology devices will enable early identification of breast cancer cases. “Our objective is to reach the maximum number of women and ensure timely treatment,” he said.

As per NHM guidelines, two modern screening devices have been installed at the District Hospital in Pauri Garhwal, while one device has been set up at a Sub-District Hospital. In Tehri Garhwal, one such device has been installed at the District Hospital. These state-of-the-art devices will facilitate early breast cancer screening, benefiting women from rural and remote areas who often lack access to specialized healthcare services.

Screening Camps Every Tuesday and Friday

Under the new directives, all Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Clinics will organize screening camps twice a week in camp mode. These camps will be held every Tuesday and Friday. However, due to a public holiday this week, the first camp will be conducted on Saturday instead of Friday. Each camp will aim to screen as many women as possible, expanding outreach and coverage across communities.

Immediate Referral and Treatment for Suspected Cases

Women found with suspected symptoms during screening will be promptly referred to specialist doctors for further evaluation and treatment. Health officials emphasize that early diagnosis is critical, as it significantly improves treatment outcomes and reduces mortality rates associated with breast cancer.

Clear Allocation of Responsibilities

To ensure effective implementation, NHM has directed that each NCD clinic designate one Medical Officer (MO) and one Staff Nurse (SN) to oversee the organization and execution of the screening camps. All screening-related data must be compulsorily uploaded to the NCD portal, and a daily report is required to be submitted by 4:00 PM.

Major Relief for Rural and Hill Women

This initiative is expected to provide substantial relief to women in hilly and rural regions, who previously had to travel long distances for diagnostic services. The Health Department believes that, along with early detection, the program will also enhance awareness about breast health among women.

Overall, this initiative marks a significant milestone in Uttarakhand’s efforts to strengthen women-centric healthcare and prevent serious illnesses through early intervention.

Dr. Rashmi Pant, Director, NHM Uttarakhand, said that the initiative is extremely important for women’s health. “Early detection of cancer significantly improves treatment success rates and helps save lives,” she said.

Manuj Goyal, Mission Director, NHM Uttarakhand, stated that the program would reinforce cancer control efforts in the state. “Through regular screening camps, we will be able to screen a larger number of women and ensure timely detection of suspected cases. Our priority is to reach every woman with this facility,” he added.

Sachin Kurve, Secretary, Medical Health and Family Welfare Department, said that the state government is giving top priority to women’s health. “Ensuring timely detection and treatment of serious diseases like breast cancer is our responsibility. Through modern technology, advanced diagnostic facilities are being extended to remote areas. This initiative will not only strengthen healthcare services but also increase awareness among women. All districts have been instructed to implement this campaign with seriousness and connect as many women as possible. Timely screening can control the disease, and we are continuously working in this direction,” he said.