The Maharashtra Public Health Department launched a focused awareness programme on Monday, targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years to educate them about cervical cancer and the importance of early prevention.
Focus on Prevention Through Education
At the launch event, Health Minister Prakash Abitkar emphasized the critical role of awareness in preventing cervical cancer. “Our aim is to empower young girls and their families with the right information to take preventive action early,” he said.
ASHA Workers to Lead Community Outreach
To ensure wide reach at the grassroots level, the department will engage ASHA workers in spreading awareness about the disease. Maharashtra launches cervical cancer drive for girls 9–14. Focus on early prevention, free tests, and ASHA-led outreach.
Health Services Available Free of Cost
Minister Abitkar highlighted the availability of free diagnostic services at district hospitals, including sonography, MRI, ECG, and dialysis. He encouraged citizens to utilize these government health services, stating, “If people take advantage of the facilities offered by the public health department, they can save up to 70% of their medical expenses.”
Need for Broader Awareness
As reported by midday.com, he also stressed the importance of educating the public about the free healthcare services already available. “It is equally necessary to create awareness about these services so more people can benefit,” Abitkar added.