Granules India, a pharmaceutical company based in Hyderabad, has launched its 'Breast Health Express' mobile unit at AIG Hospitals, marking a significant step in cancer screening for underserved communities.
In a press statement on Wednesday, the company informed that this initiative, led by the Granules Trust in collaboration with the Asian Medical Foundation, UC Breast Foundation, and AIG Hospitals, aims to improve cancer detection and treatment accessibility in remote areas.
The mobile unit is equipped with advanced mammography and ultrasound facilities, as well as essential health check-up tools for haemoglobin, blood pressure, and glucose levels. This initiative represents a major stride in equitable healthcare by delivering these critical services directly to communities that lack access. Along with health screenings, the mobile unit also offers free distribution of medicines, with a strong emphasis on early breast cancer detection.
Uma Chigurupati, Executive Director of Granules India and Chairperson of the Granules Trust highlighted the company’s dedication to community health, stating, “The launch of the Breast Health Express embodies Granules India's core philosophy of innovating beyond pharmaceuticals to make a direct impact on public health. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to addressing critical healthcare gaps, particularly in rural areas where access is often limited. By bringing breast cancer screening services to underserved populations, we are not only addressing an urgent health need but also reaffirming our belief that healthcare should be accessible to all.”
Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals, emphasised the significance of this collaboration, stating, “The partnership between Granules Trust, Asian Medical Foundation, UC Breast Foundation, and AIG Hospitals is a remarkable example of how private sector partnerships can effectively address critical healthcare challenges. The Breast Health Express will play a crucial role in extending vital screening services to remote communities, ensuring that essential cancer detection reaches those who need it most.”
Dr. Pragnya Chigurupati, Consultant Breast Oncologist at AIG and Founder of UC Breast Foundation, underscored the initiative’s transformative impact, “Beyond screenings, Breast Health Express will raise awareness about breast health and empower women with the knowledge of regular self-examinations. Through this initiative and the ongoing efforts of the UC Breast Foundation, we aim to promote early detection while also providing financial assistance to women in need of critical treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.”
Launched in alignment with Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the Breast Health Express is set to commence operations in and around Hyderabad, with plans to expand to additional districts in Telangana in the coming months, the statement from company added.