NTR Vaidya Seva Trust CEO Dinesh Kumar said urban areas show higher cancer incidence. Since 2006–07, 3.29 lakh patients have received cancer care under the scheme

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh will soon prepare a detailed ‘Cancer Atlas’ mapping cancer cases across regions to strengthen early detection, public awareness and medical preparedness, senior oncologist and State Government Advisor Dr. Nori Dattatreyudu announced on Friday.

Speaking at the 5th Advisory Meeting on Cancer Disease Burden held at the Health & Family Welfare Department headquarters in Mangalagiri, Dr. Nori said the atlas will consolidate data from government hospitals, private institutions and the ongoing NCD-4.0 screening programme. The findings, he said, will help identify high-risk zones and guide targeted interventions. He added that the atlas would soon be submitted to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav.

Dr. Nori highlighted that while national bodies like ICMR currently release only sample-based estimates, Andhra Pradesh is now generating authentic field-level data. The State’s integrated system, including the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva Trust, provides valuable insights into treatment patterns and region-specific cancer incidence.

Officials stressed the need for faster referrals after initial screening. Dr. Nori directed staff to ensure that patients requiring further tests reach doctors without delay and that treatment information, whether in public or private hospitals is recorded. He also emphasised awareness on Preventive Oncology Units functioning in teaching hospitals.

NTR Vaidya Seva Trust CEO Dinesh Kumar said urban areas show higher cancer incidence. Since 2006–07, 3.29 lakh patients have received cancer care under the scheme, costing the government Rs 4,616 crore. Secondary Health Director Chakradhar Babu noted that nine day-care chemotherapy centres are operating in district hospitals, with more planned.

Health Commissioner Veerapandian said the government will soon hold a special conclave with private oncologists to strengthen cancer care delivery. NCD Joint Director Shyamala reported that under NCD-4.0, 45.68 lakh oral cancer screenings and extensive breast and cervical screenings have been completed, with referral pathways already active. Officials reiterated the need for public cooperation and awareness as Andhra Pradesh prepares a data-driven action plan to combat cancer state-wide.