SVICCAR Expands Cancer Care Network Amid Rise in Cases in Tirupati Region
Nellore: Sri Venkateswara Institute of Cancer Care and Advanced Research (SVICCAR), a unit of Tata Cancer Care Foundation, has expanded cancer prevention, screening and treatment services in response to the sharp increase in cancer registrations in Tirupati district.
According to SVICCAR medical director Dr Prasanth, cancer registrations increased from 2,556 in 2022 to over 7,000 by the end of 2025. Confirmed cancer cases increased from 1,437 to over 3,400 during the same period, while nearly 11,000 suspected cases have been recorded since mid-2022.
Dr Prasanth attributed this trend largely to the widespread use of gutka and smokeless tobacco products, which are major risk factors for oral cancer. He said many patients tend to ignore early symptoms, such as persistent mouth patches, difficulty swallowing and voice changes, and often seek medical attention only in advanced stages.
To address the growing burden, SVICCAR has strengthened its outreach and treatment programs. The institute has conducted more than 20 awareness and screening programmes, screening more than 1.43 lakh people and training frontline healthcare workers to detect cancer symptoms at early stages. Special attention was given to oral, breast and cervical cancers.
The institute has also expanded treatment services, including specialized surgeries and advanced cancer care, so patients can access treatment locally rather than traveling to distant centers.
SVICCAR has reported a steady increase in patient registrations and treatment volumes since its inception in fiscal year 2022-23.
Besides clinical services, the institute conducts awareness programs in schools, villages and community groups. Anti-tobacco campaigns and public education initiatives are also conducted to reduce cancer risk factors.
Healthcare experts at the institute emphasized that early diagnosis remains critical to improve treatment outcomes and said the expanded network aims to improve access to timely diagnosis and care in Tirupati and neighboring areas.
