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New InitiativesThere are some activities, which are carried out under the National cancer control programme out of WHO funding under the biennium pattern. In WHO biennium 1998–1999, 16 workshop/training programmes were carried out throughout India. The Pap Smear Kits and Can scan software were supplied to 12 RCC’s. Morphine tablets were also supplied to them. In the WHO biennium 2000–2001 following were carried out
- Outreach activities by medical colleges for early detection and awareness of cancer.
- Training of personnel in early detection and awareness of cancer.
- Supply of Morphine.
- Telemedicine and supply of computer hardware and software.
- IEC activities.
- Modified District Cancer Control Programme.
- National Cancer Awareness Day.
- Training of cytopathologists and cytotechnicians in the quality assurance in Pap Smear technology.
- Participation in Health Melas and distribution of health education material.
- Postage stamp depicting a women carrying out ‘Self breast examination’ was brought out by Deptt of Posts on National Cancer Awareness Day.
- Likely telecast of a health magazine ‘Kalyani’ in the current year, with cancer and anti tobacco items under the agreement with Prasar Bharti & MOHFW.
- Broadcast of health education audio material developed by CNCI, Kolkatta, through FM Radio.
Modified District Cancer Control Programme has been initiated in four states namely Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu & West Bengal. Sixty Blocks have been taken and 1200 ‘NCD workers, 30 supervisor doctors, and consultants have been appointed. This will be a Survey cum health education drive in which about 12 lakh women in the age group 20–65 years are being contacted. Health education about general ailments, cancer prevention and early detection besides ‘Self Breast Examination’ will be imparted. The project will be completed in about a year’s time.
National Cancer Awareness Day
Cancer Awareness day was observed on 7–11–2001. Hon’ble Min. of State, Ministry of Communications Shri Tapan Sikdar at Vigyan Bhawan on the same day, released a commemorative stamp on Cancer and first day cover portraying Madame Curie. A newspaper advertisement on National Cancer Awareness Day was also released in prominent dailies across the country.
