Chief Minister of Kerala Shri Pinarayi Vijayan has launched a large-scale breast cancer awareness campaign called Mega Pinkathon, aimed at intensifying early detection efforts and strengthening cancer care across the state.
The campaign was organised by the Kerala Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and officially inaugurated at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College auditorium, drawing attention to the rising burden of breast cancer and the need for greater public engagement in preventive health measures.
Health authorities in Kerala estimate that breast cancer risk among women remains significant, with one in nine women in the state potentially developing the disease. Recognising this challenge, the Mega Pinkathon initiative is designed to broaden public understanding of risks, promote regular screening and reduce stigma associated with cancer symptoms and treatment.
The state’s cancer control efforts already encompass a range of structured programmes. Under the Aarogyam Anandam, Akattam Arbudham campaign, more than 2.1 million people were screened for cancers in a single year, with free screening services available at primary health centres for women over age 30 and those with a family history of cancer. Treatment facilities have been strengthened at major cancer hospitals including the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), the Malabar Cancer Centre and the Cochin Cancer Research Centre, and chemotherapy services have been expanded to taluk-level hospitals to improve access outside urban centres.
Kerala’s public health framework also includes schemes to reduce financial barriers to treatment. The Karunya Health Security Scheme provides free cancer treatment, while the Karunya Sparsham initiative ensures affordable access to medicines. A vaccination project targeting cervical cancer for schoolchildren has been rolled out to complement screening efforts.
In parallel with awareness and treatment initiatives, Kerala is working to transform its cancer care infrastructure. Decentralised chemotherapy services and district-level cancer programmes are being implemented across all 14 districts, supported by a statewide cancer grid and strengthened laboratory networks. Special clinics focused on women’s health, operating at more than 5,400 community health centres, offer routine screening services including breast and other cancer checks.
The Mega Pinkathon campaign builds on these existing systems, bringing renewed emphasis to early detection and community-wide participation in cancer prevention and care.
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