Andhra Pradesh Government Prioritizes Public Health with Major Cancer Prevention Initiatives
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has declared that the Andhra Pradesh government is placing utmost importance on public health, launching comprehensive programs including the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent cancer. Speaking at a public meeting in Ravivalasa, Cheepurupalli constituency, Naidu emphasized the coalition government's vision to build a healthy, wealthy, and happy state.
Free HPV Vaccination Drive for Girls Under 15
Naidu urged all girls below 15 years of age to get vaccinated against HPV to significantly reduce future cancer cases. The vaccine, which typically costs Rs 4,000, is being provided free of cost across the state. The government is allocating Rs 14.11 crore to vaccinate 3.45 lakh girls, including 11,989 in Vizianagaram district alone.
For effective cervical cancer prevention, achieving 90% vaccination coverage among girls is essential, Naidu stated. A single dose offers substantial protection, with vaccines available at no cost in Primary Health Centers (PHCs), district hospitals, and other government medical facilities. The entire vaccination process is being meticulously monitored by the central government through the UWIN application.
Alarming Cancer Statistics in Andhra Pradesh
The Chief Minister presented concerning data highlighting the growing cancer burden in the state. Cancer cases have increased from 29,379 in 2021 to 32,657 in 2025, with nearly 65% of these cases reported among women. Breast and cervical cancers are more prevalent in women, while oral cancer affects more men.
Cervical cancer has emerged as a major public health concern, with 15–20 cases per one lakh women in the state. Naidu noted that non-communicable diseases account for 74% of global deaths, 63% in India, and 68% in Andhra Pradesh, underscoring the urgency of preventive measures.
Comprehensive Cancer Screening and New Healthcare Infrastructure
Extensive cancer screening is already underway across Andhra Pradesh. To date, 1.72 crore people have been screened for oral cancer, while 90.39 lakh women have undergone screening for breast and cervical cancers. From these screenings, 5,07,590 individuals were referred for oral cancer follow-up, 2,50,897 for breast cancer, and 3,40,154 for cervical cancer.
The state government is establishing a State Cancer Institute in Kurnool with an investment of Rs 50 crore. Additionally, the medical and healthcare allocation in the latest state budget has been increased by 4%, reflecting the administration's commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
Innovative Healthcare Initiatives: Sanjeevani Project and AI Doctors
Naidu announced the introduction of the Sanjeevani project, a comprehensive public health initiative, and revealed plans to roll out artificial intelligence (AI) doctor services for medical advice in the near future. These technological advancements aim to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality across the state.
The vaccination drive involves substantial logistical support, with 1,645 cold-chain points established to preserve vaccine efficacy and 16,912 staff members deployed to ensure smooth implementation.
Economic Revival and Development Projects
During his address, Naidu also highlighted the state's economic recovery efforts. He noted that 62,76,322 people are receiving pensions across Andhra Pradesh, with Rs 2,726 crore being disbursed monthly. The Chief Minister credited the central government for providing crucial support to revive the state's weakened economy.
Significant investments are flowing into Visakhapatnam, including a Google data center, while major IT companies like TCS and Cognizant have already established operations in the region. With the upcoming Bhogapuram airport, North Andhra is poised for substantial development and employment generation.
The government has introduced the P4 policy to support all economically backward communities, which Naidu believes will yield positive socioeconomic results. He further assured that irrigation projects in North Andhra districts will be completed within three years, ensuring water availability for every acre of agricultural land.
Naidu participated in multiple service activities, including the HPV vaccination drive and the NTR Bharosa Pension programme, during his visit to Ravivalasa. He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's nationwide initiative to protect girls from cervical and breast cancer, aligning state efforts with national health priorities.
