Awareness and timely medical screening have been identified as crucial weapons in the ongoing battle against cancer. In Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur district, these efforts have led to the identification of over 470 individuals suffering from cancer over the past three years, according to official statements released on Sunday.
The Health Department’s dedicated screening initiative has been instrumental in this discovery, with 474 cancer patients identified in Hamirpur district across the last three years. Specifically, 197 cases were identified in 2024, followed by 152 in 2025, and an estimated 125 cases identified up to June 2026. These figures were provided by Hamirpur Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Satish Kumar.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the Health Department is actively urging the public to seek medical attention promptly if they experience any symptoms and to undergo regular health check-ups to ensure early detection of the disease. The department is extending its reach to cover every village within the district to facilitate comprehensive cancer detection efforts.
These screening campaigns are being systematically conducted through ‘Ayushman Arogya Mandirs,’ which are health and wellness centres, alongside various other healthcare institutions and specially organized medical camps. The strategy aims to bring screening services closer to the community.
Community Health Officers (CHOs) and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are playing a pivotal and indispensable role in this extensive public health effort. CHOs are responsible for carrying out screenings at the sub-centre level, directly engaging with local populations. Concurrently, ASHA workers are undertaking household visits to collect vital information regarding potential cancer symptoms, utilizing a carefully structured questionnaire to ensure thoroughness and consistency in data collection.
Individuals who exhibit any symptoms that are considered suspicious are strongly encouraged to visit local healthcare facilities for further, more detailed diagnostic testing. This step is crucial for confirming or ruling out the presence of the disease.
As part of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases, regular screening services are being provided to individuals aged 30 years and above. This age bracket is considered particularly important for early detection of various non-communicable diseases, including certain types of cancer.
A particular emphasis is being placed on the screening for three major types of cancer: oral cancer, breast cancer, and cervical cancer. Through targeted awareness camps and outreach programs, the Health Department is dedicated to educating the public about the early signs and symptoms of these cancers, thereby ensuring that any unusual changes in the body are not overlooked by the individuals concerned.
The CMO further stated that essential chemotherapy services are readily available at the Civil Hospital located in Nadaun and at the Medical College in Hamirpur. The Health Department has established provisions for a wide range of 42 different types of anti-cancer medications, ensuring that patients have access to necessary treatments. At these designated healthcare centres, patients not only receive chemotherapy but also comprehensive follow-up care to manage their condition effectively.
A significant aspect of the current treatment protocol is that patients do not require prolonged hospitalization for their chemotherapy sessions. After receiving their scheduled treatment, they are able to return home on the same day, allowing for a less disruptive treatment experience.
While a substantial number of cancer patients identified within the Hamirpur district are undergoing their prescribed treatments locally, the Chief Medical Officer noted that some patients are choosing to seek more advanced or specialized care by visiting healthcare institutions located in other districts. This highlights the continued need for advanced medical infrastructure and specialized services across the state.
The Chenab Times News Desk
