Empowering Rural Youth through Mobile Cancer Detection Vans: Combating the Socioeconomic Burden of Oral Cancer in Rural Madhya Pradesh
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Abstract
Oral cancer presents a growing public health challenge in India, particularly affecting young adults in rural Madhya Pradesh. This research explores the complex interaction of socioeconomic determinants, cultural norms, and limited access to timely diagnosis and care. The paper examines the potential of mobile cancer detection vans (MCDVs), equipped with advanced diagnostic tools like fluorescence spectroscopy and AI-enabled technologies, as a transformative public health intervention. Drawing upon secondary data and a thorough literature review, the study underscores the increasing oral cancer burden among youth, the diagnostic delays caused by infrastructural gaps, and the operational feasibility of mobilebased early detection models. With over 1500 early-stage cancer detections already attributed to MCDV programs, the paper provides a robust policy framework for scaling up such initiatives in underserved areas. Recommendations target health system strengthening, youthcantered outreach, and socioeconomic resilience to foster equitable cancer control.
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