NEW DELHI – On the occasion of World Cancer Day (February 4, 2026), the Delhi government launched the Cancer Awareness, Prevention & Screening (CAPS) programme. Inaugurated by Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, the initiative aims to combat the rising cancer burden through community-based early detection and mobile diagnostic services.
The programme, developed by the Delhi State Cancer Institute (DSCI), specifically targets breast, cervical, and oral cancers, which account for a significant portion of cancer cases among women in the capital.
Key Features of the CAPS Programme
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Mobile Screening Vans: Specially equipped vans featuring mammography and HPV DNA testing will be deployed across prominent and remote locations, bringing “Five Minute Screenings” directly to residents.
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At-Home Testing: The government unveiled a self-testing kit for cervical cancer. This allows women to collect vaginal swab samples privately for RT-PCR testing, with results delivered via phone within one week.
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Comprehensive Care: Beyond screening, the initiative integrates anti-tobacco education, medical consultations, and plans for a cervical cancer vaccination drive.
Focus on Women’s Health
Current health data indicates that breast cancer accounts for 28.6% of female cancer cases in Delhi, while cervical cancer makes up roughly 10.8%. Minister Singh emphasized that delayed diagnosis is the biggest hurdle to effective treatment.
“Our goal is to make screening simple, quick, and routine so that cancer can be detected at its earliest, most treatable stage,” Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh stated during the launch.
