Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 21: In a significant step towards women's healthcare, the Science and Technology Park, Pune, in collaboration with its incubatee company AyuGen Biosciences Private Limited, has successfully implemented a Cervical Cancer Awareness and Screening Programme for 2,000 rural women from the Raigad district of Maharashtra. The initiative, supported by Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL), Mumbai, under the MGL Aarogya Programme, aims to promote early detection and prevention of cervical cancer among underserved communities.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer affecting women in India, with a particularly high incidence among those aged 25 to 50 years. Notably, rural regions report some of the highest rates of this preventable disease. Every year, India accounts for nearly 130,000 new cases and 74,000 deaths due to cervical cancer. Given its asymptomatic nature in early stages, early detection through screening programs is critical in reducing mortality rates.
Dr. Rajendra Jagdale, Director General & CEO, Science and Technology Park, Pune, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, "Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers where the cause is known and prevention is possible if detected at an early stage. Timely support from Mahanagar Gas Limited has allowed us to make a real impact in rural Maharashtra by bringing life-saving awareness and screening to thousands of women."
The programme utilized the HPV test, a USFDA-approved method with over 90% median sensitivity for detecting pre-cancers. The Cobas HPV test, which identifies 14 high-risk HPV types, was conducted across 15 locations in Raigad, reaching out to more than 50,000 women through awareness efforts promoted via print and social media.
Out of 2,039 samples collected and tested, 82 women (4.02%) were found to be HPV-positive. The highest prevalence was observed in regions including Alibaug, Pen, Panvel, Neral, and Uran, with an average age of 40.3 years among positive cases. Women who tested negative do not require screening for the next 4-5 years, significantly reducing unnecessary medical interventions.
Mr. Susanta Kumar Raut, Chief Manager CSR, Mahanagar Gas Limited, highlighted the corporate social responsibility efforts behind the initiative, stating, "MGL Aarogya Programme is committed to ensuring accessible healthcare for underserved communities. By supporting this cervical cancer awareness and screening drive, we aim to safeguard the health and well-being of thousands of women, empowering them with knowledge and early diagnosis."
All 82 HPV-positive women identified during the screening programme have been provided with follow-up testing and treatment support. They will undergo repeat testing after a year to ensure continued monitoring and early intervention. The initiative has not only saved lives but also prevented the financial and emotional strain that late-stage cancer diagnosis can bring to families.
Mr. Ashu Shinghal, Managing Director, Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL), stated that with the continued support of Mahanagar Gas Limited, Science and Technology Park, Pune along with its incubatee company AyuGen Biosciences Pvt. Ltd., the initiative is set to expand its outreach, bringing hope and healthcare to even more women across Maharashtra.
Mr. Vaibhav Nimgire, Assistant Manager, Science and Technology Park, Pune, further added, "Prevention and early detection are the key to combating cervical cancer. Through this programme, we have ensured that women in remote villages receive the necessary information and medical support, reinforcing our mission to bridge the healthcare gap in rural India."
The programme concluding event was held at Neel Clinic, New Panvel. Mr. Manish Pungliya, Founder & Director, AyuGen Biosciences Pvt. Ltd and Dr.(Mrs) Shubhada Neel were present on this occasion.
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