BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 11th December 2025: A 100-day cervical cancer screening campaign at the Jalai Ayushman Aarogya Mandir in Unakoti district has demonstrated the effectiveness of the Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) test in detecting early signs of cervical cancer among rural women.
Cervical cancer remains a major health challenge for women in India. While the disease is curable if detected early, many regions lack access to advanced laboratories or Pap smear facilities. In such areas, the VIA test, where trained nurses or health workers apply acetic acid to the cervix and visually inspect for abnormalities has proven to be a simple, cost-effective, and immediate diagnostic method.
The success of the Unakoti campaign was attributed to strong community awareness and cooperation. Four women underwent VIA screening during the camp, guided by Community Health Officer Rupa Das, who played a pivotal role in mobilizing participation.
Das visited households and addressed women at the camp, explaining the risks and symptoms of cervical cancer and the importance of early screening. She reassured participants, dispelling fears and misconceptions, and demonstrated how the VIA test provides instant results and helps determine the next course of treatment if abnormalities are detected.
On the designated day, Das conducted the VIA tests on four women. Using a sterilized speculum, she examined the cervix under bright light before applying 5% acetic acid with cotton. The acid causes proteins in abnormal cells to coagulate, appearing as white patches within a minute, an indication of a positive result.
In this case, none of the women showed white patches, and all tested negative. The outcome not only brought relief to the participants but also instilled confidence among other women in the community, making the VIA test more acceptable and trustworthy.
The campaign highlighted how trained health workers and simple diagnostic methods can successfully screen for serious diseases like cervical cancer in resource-limited settings. It also highlighted the importance of awareness, community participation, and accessible healthcare in combating women’s health challenges.
