Maharashtra boosts cancer care with 27 new day-care units and early detection drives
Maharashtra is expanding its cancer care services as patient numbers continue to rise. The state government has launched 27 new day-care treatment units, bringing advanced care closer to patients’ homes. Alongside this, screening campaigns and vaccination drives are being rolled out to detect and prevent cancer earlier. The state currently runs nine cancer day-care centres, but the addition of 27 new units will widen access. Officials say this move will cut travel costs and reduce stress for patients and their families. Local treatment options mean fewer long journeys for those needing regular care.
Over three crore citizens have already undergone cancer screenings as part of ongoing campaigns. The government is also pushing early detection through mobile diagnostic vans, which visit rural and remote areas. These efforts aim to catch cancer at treatable stages, improving survival rates.
A new HPV vaccination programme has begun for girls aged 14 to 15, targeting cervical cancer prevention. Meanwhile, the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana is being upgraded to include more advanced treatment options. This ensures patients receive better support under the state’s health scheme.
At a recent meeting, South Korean experts showcased ‘liquid biopsy’ technology for early and precise cancer detection. The method, which analyses blood samples for tumour markers, could further improve screening accuracy in Maharashtra. The expansion of day-care units and screening programmes comes as Maharashtra faces a growing cancer burden. With more facilities and early detection tools, the government aims to ease the strain on patients and hospitals. These steps are expected to make treatment faster, cheaper, and more effective across the state.
