Mumbai, Oct 22: Early detection remains a critical factor in improving breast cancer outcomes, yet access to regular screening continues to be a challenge for many women, particularly in under-served communities. Through community-based screening initiatives in Maharashtra, iBreastExam is helping extend access to breast health screening and identify women who may require further clinical evaluation.
In partnership with the Empathy Foundation, the first phase of the Maharashtra initiative screened 101,200+ women over 12 months, exceeding its initial target of one lakh women. The programme identified 4,900+ women (4.9%) with clinically relevant lumps, highlighting the importance of accessible screening and timely medical follow-up. These findings underscore the need to strengthen community-level screening efforts and ensure that women with abnormal findings are guided towards appropriate clinical assessment.
Building on the first phase, the second phase is currently underway, with 44 iBreastExam devices deployed across 22 Government Medical Colleges in Maharashtra. The initiative aims to screen an additional 4.4 lakh women, expanding access to breast health screening through the state's public healthcare network.
During the previous year, iBreastExam screened 8902 women across 22 districts, identifying 1907 women requiring further clinical evaluation. In the current phase, the programme has screened 3056 women, of whom 543 were flagged for further assessment. These figures reflect the programme's continued efforts to connect screening with appropriate follow-up care.
Speaking about the initiative, Ms Gauri Navalkar-Godse, CEO – India, UE Lifesciences said,
“Early detection begins with making breast health screening more accessible and encouraging women to seek timely medical attention. Community-based initiatives can help bridge gaps in access, particularly for women who may not otherwise undergo regular screening. The progress in Maharashtra demonstrates the value of taking screening closer to communities and strengthening the pathway from identifying an abnormal finding to clinical evaluation and appropriate care. Sustained efforts in awareness, access and follow-up are essential to improving breast health outcomes.”
iBreastExam is a portable, battery-operated breast examination technology designed to identify areas of abnormal tissue stiffness that may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is painless, radiation-free and can be used in community settings, clinics and healthcare camps. The technology is intended to support breast health screening and does not replace clinical assessment, diagnostic investigations or mammography where indicated.
Speaking about the programme, Dr Monica Goel, General and Internal Medicine Physician, PD Hinduja Hospital said,
“Community-based screening plays an important role in reaching women who may not have access to regular breast health check-ups. Identifying a clinically relevant lump is an important first step, but timely follow-up and appropriate clinical evaluation are equally essential. Initiatives such as this can help improve awareness, encourage women to seek medical advice and strengthen access to early assessment, particularly in underserved communities.”
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings renewed attention to the importance of breast health, initiatives such as the Maharashtra programme highlight the need to combine accessible screening with awareness, timely medical consultation and appropriate follow-up. Strengthening these efforts can help more women take informed steps towards their breast health.
