In a major step towards enhancing women’s health in rural areas, Manipal Hospital Gurugram, in partnership with the Manipal Foundation, has introduced a free cancer screening program called ‘Kawach’. The initiative aims to improve early detection of common cancers among women in underserved communities across Gurugram.
The inaugural camp was held at Shivalaya, Daulatabad, and was formally inaugurated by Kumudini Rakesh Daulatabad, who applauded the initiative for expanding access to basic healthcare at the grassroots level.
This month, the program targets screening approximately 5,000 women aged 18 to 65 from multiple villages, including Choma, Dundehra, Muldehra, Daulatabad, and Carterpuri. The screening camp focuses not only on general wellness assessments but also on early detection of oral, breast, and cervical cancers, enabling timely interventions for high-risk cases.
Women presenting suspicious symptoms will be promptly referred to nearby hospitals for further evaluation and management, ensuring continuous care beyond the camp environment.
Dr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma, Vice Chairman of Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre & Onco Robotic Surgeries, North-West Cluster, highlighted the importance of early detection, stating,
“Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality in India. Many common cancers, such as breast, cervical, and oral cancer, can be treated when detected at an early stage, often with better treatment and outcomes. Unfortunately, we still see a large number of patients coming in only after symptoms become severe. Regular screening plays a vital role in detecting cancers early, often before symptoms appear, which significantly improves treatment outcomes. Initiatives like these play a significant role in reducing late-stage diagnoses and improving survival rates, especially among women who may not seek medical advice until the disease has progressed.”
Harinarayan Sharma, CEO of Manipal Foundation, emphasized the program’s role in preventive healthcare: “Through this initiative, we aim to strengthen access to preventive care by providing structured health screenings, personalised on-ground counselling, and seamless referral support to the communities that need it the most. ‘Kawach’ acts as a protective shield, helping identify risks early, addressing concerns on the spot, and guiding the patient towards the right medical support without fear or hesitation.”
The ‘Kawach’ program represents a proactive approach to healthcare, particularly for women who often delay seeking medical attention until the disease is advanced. By combining awareness, early detection, and immediate referral support, the initiative aims to significantly improve outcomes for women in rural Gurugram, fostering healthier communities and reducing cancer-related mortality.
(Image is for representational purpose only)