The Swasth Mahila Swasth Goa initiative has emerged as a pioneering step in strengthening preventive healthcare for women, further establishing Goa as a leader in public health innovation. Launched by the state government alongside healthcare partners, the programme focuses on the early detection of breast cancer—an essential factor in boosting survival rates and improving treatment outcomes.
By July 2025, Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane reported that 1,69,348 women had been screened under the initiative. The programme makes use of the iBreast device, which is pain-free, non-invasive, and radiation-free, allowing screenings to be carried out quickly and comfortably in both urban and rural areas. This approach has brought advanced breast cancer screening to communities that often have limited access to specialist diagnostic facilities.
The results so far reflect the programme’s effectiveness: of the women screened, 3,429 were identified as suspected cases requiring further evaluation, and 74 cases of breast cancer have been confirmed. These numbers highlight how the initiative has enabled earlier detection and timely treatment.
Screenings take place across government health centres, outreach clinics, and mobile health camps, where healthcare workers trained in the use of the iBreast device also counsel women on the importance of early detection. Suspected cases are referred to district hospitals and the Goa Medical College & Hospital for follow-up tests and treatment.
Alongside the screenings, widespread awareness campaigns address stigma and educate women about breast health. Training programmes have also equipped hundreds of healthcare providers to strengthen Goa’s capacity in early detection and patient support.
Health Minister Rane encouraged all women to take part in regular check-ups, stressing the need to overcome social and cultural barriers. Through close collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and technology partners, the Swasth Mahila Swasth Goa initiative stands as a role model of accessible, community-based healthcare and women’s empowerment.