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International Women’s Day is a celebration of women’s achievements and their contributions to society. However, it is also a reminder of the challenges they face, particularly in healthcare. In India, where cultural and societal expectations often place women’s health as secondary to family responsibilities, diseases like breast and cervical cancer remain major threats. Despite medical advancements, the lack of awareness, accessibility, and affordability of healthcare continues to put millions of women at risk.

The Alarming Reality of Women’s Cancers in India

Women’s cancers, particularly breast and cervical cancer, are among the leading causes of death for women in India. Breast cancer has overtaken cervical cancer as the most common cancer among Indian women, with an increasing number of cases reported each year. According to estimates, one woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every four minutes in India, and one dies from it every thirteen minutes. The tragedy is that early detection can significantly improve survival rates, but many women seek medical help only in advanced stages due to fear, lack of awareness, or social stigma.

Cervical cancer, on the other hand, remains a silent killer, despite being highly preventable. India accounts for nearly one-fourth of the world’s cervical cancer cases, with a significant number of deaths caused by late diagnosis. Unlike other cancers, cervical cancer can be effectively prevented through HPV vaccination and routine screening, yet these measures are not widely adopted due to a lack of awareness and affordability issues.

Barriers to Early Detection and Treatment

One of the biggest obstacles in the fight against women’s cancers in India is awareness. Many women are unaware of the importance of self-examinations, clinical screenings, and vaccines. Social stigma surrounding cancer, particularly in rural areas, prevents women from discussing their health concerns openly.

Another major challenge is accessibility to healthcare services. In urban areas, there is a growing number of hospitals and diagnostic centers, but in rural India, access to specialized healthcare remains limited. Women often have to travel long distances to receive proper treatment, which can be both physically and financially draining.

Affordability is another key issue. Many Indian families, especially in lower-income groups, cannot afford cancer screenings, let alone advanced treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Government schemes and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are working to bridge this gap, but more efforts are needed to make cancer care accessible to all women.

The Way Forward: Empowering Women to Fight Cancer

On this Women’s Day, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of women’s health empowerment. Public and private sectors must work together to increase awareness, improve healthcare infrastructure, and make cancer screenings and treatments more affordable.

Education and awareness campaigns should be strengthened to encourage women to prioritize their health. Schools, workplaces, and community groups must be involved in spreading information about self-examinations, routine screenings, and the HPV vaccine.

Government initiatives should focus on expanding free or subsidized screening programs, particularly in rural areas. Mobile health units, telemedicine, and local healthcare centers can play a crucial role in reaching women who lack access to hospitals.

Breaking the stigma around cancer is equally important. Women must be encouraged to discuss their health openly and seek medical help without fear of judgment. Support groups and counseling services can provide emotional strength to those diagnosed with cancer.

Conclusion

A healthy woman is the backbone of a healthy society. As we celebrate Women’s Day, let us not only acknowledge the contributions of women but also take active steps to protect their health. The fight against women’s cancers in India requires a collective effort—through awareness, better healthcare policies, and societal support. Investing in women’s health is not just a necessity; it is a responsibility that can save countless lives and build a stronger, healthier nation.

Dr Prakash Devde