Health Minister launches cancer screening vans under CAPS

Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh on Wednesday said the government is strengthening cancer control and prevention efforts by expanding access to affordable testing and increasing awareness to promote early detection.

He was speaking at the launch of the Cancer Awareness, Prevention & Screening Programme (CAPS), which focuses on accessible and affordable screening, particularly for women. “Many people undergo tests very late, which makes treatment more difficult. Along with awareness, we will conduct screening tests so that patients can be identified at the earliest stage and treated effectively. We are also planning to introduce vaccination for cervical cancer very soon so that people can benefit and be protected,” the Minister said.

The initiative includes mobile cancer screening vans equipped with mammography and HPV DNA testing facilities. Mr. Singh also unveiled a self-testing kit that allows women to collect a vaginal swab sample and place it in labelled vials for HPV DNA testing through RT-PCR. Test reports will be shared within a week, followed by medical consultation and recommended treatment, where required.