Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan officially launched the Mega Pinkathon breast cancer awareness campaign in Thiruvananthapuram, an event organized by the Kerala Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the medical college auditorium. Speaking at the inauguration on Thursday, January 8, 2026, Chief Minister Vijayan urged women not to conceal breast cancer, stressing the importance of confronting and defeating the disease directly, with the government ensuring comprehensive support. The campaign addresses a significant public health challenge in Kerala, where statistics indicate that one in nine women faces the risk of developing breast cancer. Vijayan emphasized that early detection is crucial for complete recovery, noting that fear or reluctance often leads many women to hide symptoms. During his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the state's robust infrastructure and initiatives designed for women's health protection. These include a comprehensive cancer control program that has made considerable strides in treatment. Specific government measures mentioned were free screening facilities at primary health centres for women over 30 and those with a family history of cancer. He also referenced the 'Aarogyam Anandam, Akattam Arbudham' campaign, which successfully screened 2.1 million individuals within a year. Additionally, facilities at the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), Malabar Cancer Centre, and Cochin Cancer Research Centre have been enhanced, and chemotherapy services extended to taluk hospitals. Free treatment is accessible through the Karunya Health Security Scheme, and affordable medicines are provided via 'Karunya Sparsham'. A new project offering cervical cancer vaccines to school students has also been initiated. Health Minister Veena George, who chaired the event, reiterated the government's vision to transform Kerala into a premier cancer treatment hub. She detailed plans for implementing decentralized chemotherapy systems and district cancer programs across all 14 districts, alongside establishing a 'cancer grid' and specialized lab networks. Furthermore, special clinics dedicated to women's health, including breast cancer screening, are available every Tuesday at all 5,416 community health centres. The original news article was published by the Times of India on January 9, 2026, at 06:05 IST.