Cancer department fully strengthened through advanced cancer care: SVIMS director Dr RV Kumar
World Cancer Day observed at SVIMS
Cancer awareness rally, release of posters and pamphlets
TIRUPATI, FEBRUARY 04, 2026: Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS), Tirupati, which has been a boon to the people of the Rayalaseema region, is providing world-class and state-of-the-art medical services for cancer patients at all stages of the disease after developing its Cancer Department to full capacity, said TTD In-Charge Executive Officer Sri Venkaiah Chowdary.
On the occasion of World Cancer Day, SVIMS organised a cancer awareness rally, the release of posters and pamphlets, and a poster exhibition on Wednesday.
Participating as the chief guest in the rally, Sri Venkaiah Chowdary stated that an Advanced Cancer Care Building with an estimated cost of ₹120 crore, comprising 300 beds, 5 ICUs and other ultra-modern medical equipment, will be inaugurated shortly at SVIMS. He said that a team of highly qualified and experienced specialists is available at SVIMS to provide effective treatment to cancer patients from the early stage to the advanced stage.
He further explained that free cancer screening services are being provided to rural populations through two Pink Buses, which help in early detection of cancer. So far, 730 screening camps have been conducted through these buses, screening 42,609 people, referring 3,226 patients to SVIMS, and providing complete treatment to 759 patients. He appreciated SVIMS Director Dr R.V. Kumar and the entire medical team for their dedicated services to patients.
Speaking on the occasion, SVIMS Director and Vice-Chancellor Dr R.V. Kumar said that people need not panic about cancer, as it can be completely cured if detected early. He informed that SVIMS has been providing cancer treatment services for the past 20 years, and with the support of TTD, the departments have been modernised to offer comprehensive services in Surgical Oncology, Radiation Oncology and Medical Oncology.
He also stated that the Palliative Care Department is being strengthened to provide relief-oriented care for patients whose disease has progressed beyond the curative stage. He added that cancer patients are receiving completely free treatment under the NTR Vaidya Seva Scheme, while additional medical expenses are being covered under the Pranadanam Scheme.
During the awareness programme, Head of Radiation Oncology Dr. Subramanian, Head of Medical Oncology Dr. Bhargavi, Palliative Care Wing Professor Dr. Pranabandhu Das, along with doctors Dr. Deepti, Dr. Aditya and others, created awareness on various types of cancer.
A skit performed by SVIMS college students on the theme “Not Fear, But Responsibility Matters” drew special appreciation. Later, several cancer survivors shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for the medical services provided by TTD SVIMS.
On this occasion, the mother of Thummala Sandhya (11), a child from Bandlapalem village, Muthukuru Mandal, Nellore district, who is suffering from a rare cancer and undergoing treatment in the Medical Oncology Department, informed the TTD In-Charge EO that the child’s medicines cost about ₹2 lakh per month. She expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating that Dr Bhargavi, Head of Medical Oncology, personally extended financial assistance to cover the medication expenses for two months.
The cancer awareness poster exhibition, organised as part of the programm,e attracted a large number of visitors till evening.
The programme was attended by Medical Superintendent Dr. Ram, Head of Surgical Oncology Dr. Narendra, Head of Community Medicine Dr. K. Nagaraj, Principal, College of Physiotherapy Dr. K. Madhavi, International Pain and Palliative Care Advisor from Trivandrum Dr. Radha, RMO Dr. Koti Reddy, Deputy Director (Establishment) Dr. Adikrishnaiah, AD (PR) V. Rajashekhar, MSW Prasad, staff members and others.
Under the aegis of the Sidd Clinical Research Unit
As part of the World Cancer Day celebrations, doctors from the Sidd Clinical Research Unit participated in the rally. Subsequently, stalls were arranged displaying information pamphlets on cancer palliative care, raw medicinal herbs, millets and yoga practices. Research Officer Dr. K. Samraj, Medical Consultant Dr. R. Thamizhselvan and staff took part in the programme.
