SVICCAR Expands Cancer Care Network Amid Rise in Cases in Tirupati Region
The institute has been conducting awareness programmes in schools, villages and community groups
Nellore: Sri Venkateswara Institute of Cancer Care & Advanced Research (SVICCAR), a unit of the Tata Cancer Care Foundation, has expanded its cancer prevention, screening and treatment services in response to a sharp rise in cancer registrations across the Tirupati region.
According to SVICCAR medical director Dr Prasanth, cancer registrations increased from 2,556 in 2022 to more than 7,000 by the end of 2025. Confirmed cancer cases rose from 1,437 to over 3,400 during the same period, while nearly 11,000 suspected cases have been recorded since mid-2022.
Dr Prasanth attributed the trend largely to the widespread use of gutka and smokeless tobacco products, which are major risk factors for oral cancer. He said many patients tend to ignore early symptoms such as persistent mouth patches, difficulty in swallowing and changes in voice, often seeking medical attention only at advanced stages.
To address the growing burden, SVICCAR has strengthened its outreach and treatment programmes. The institute has conducted more than 20 awareness and screening programmes, screened over 1.43 lakh people and trained frontline healthcare workers to identify cancer symptoms at an early stage. Special emphasis has been placed on oral, breast and cervical cancers.
The institute has also expanded treatment services, including specialised surgeries and advanced cancer care, enabling patients to access treatment locally instead of travelling to distant centres.
Since its establishment in the 2022-23 financial year, SVICCAR has reported a steady increase in patient registrations and treatment volumes.
In addition to clinical services, the institute has been conducting awareness programmes in schools, villages and community groups. Anti-tobacco campaigns and public education initiatives are also being carried out to reduce cancer risk factors.
Health experts at the institute emphasised that early detection remains critical for improving treatment outcomes and said the expanded network aims to improve access to timely diagnosis and care in Tirupati and neighbouring districts.