Cervical Cancer (CA-CX) Prescreening Training of all ANM, LHV and Doctors in 13 Blocks of Pune District
Amongst rural populations, many gynecological problems in women remain hidden, neglected and untreated due to embarrassment, low body awareness and socio-cultural barriers. Lack of sensitive and accessible quality public healthcare has also contributed to this reality. In the absence of regular screening programmes, many reproductive illnesses progress to chronic stages.
To address this need, MASUM began village-based, women-centered health services rooted in feminist principles through the Sadaphuli Health Programme in August 1993.
In 2003, MASUM began using pap-smear for pre-screening of cervical cancer in rural women in Purandar. In 2005, MASUM adopted VIA (Visual Inspection with 5% Acetic Acid), an inexpensive and WHO-endorsed screening method suitable for low-resource settings.
From December 2017 to January 2018, Sadaphuli strengthened the government's cervical screening programme by introducing PHC-based VIA screening in Pune district under the NCD programme. The training focused on building practical skills of ANMs and LHVs at Sub-Center and PHC levels and strengthening awareness among women on sexual and reproductive health rights.
The training included practical and theoretical sessions, along with orientation of ASHA workers on women's health concerns, communication and first-response support. In total, practical training sessions conducted in 12 blocks were 101, with 12 theoretical trainings, covering 310 trainees and orientation of 608 ASHA workers.