Andhra Pradesh launches massive health screening for 62 lakh children under national programme
The government of Andhra Pradesh has initiated a comprehensive health screening drive for children across the state under the Rashtriya Bala Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK). The programme aims to detect health issues early and provide free treatment, covering over 62 lakh children.
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav launched the programme at the Tribal Ashram High School in Musurumilli, Polavaram district on Thursday. He emphasised that good health is essential for academic success and that the state is taking a proactive approach to healthcare rather than waiting for illnesses to appear.
Under the initiative, a total of 6,265,410 children will be screened. This includes 2,095,129 children under six years of age attending anganwadis, and 4,170,281 children aged 6 to 18 studying in government and aided schools.
The screenings will identify 38 types of health issues, including congenital defects, nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, as well as mental health issues and sleep disorders. According to a release from the Health Department, early detection of conditions like congenital heart defects, cleft lip and palate, leg deformities, and neurological problems can prevent permanent disabilities. Children found with health issues will be referred to nearby government hospitals for treatment.
In a separate initiative, the government plans to conduct eye screenings for 43.30 lakh students across the state. Minister Yadav said that ₹7 crore has been allocated to provide spectacles to 2.50 lakh students who need them.
Addressing the health needs of adolescents, the minister noted that the government is strengthening the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK). Currently, 1,317 adolescent-friendly health clinics (AFHCs) are functional, staffed by 61,556 trained peer educators who assist young people with physical, emotional, and psychological challenges.
The programme was attended by Director of Public Health Dr. K. Padmavathi, National Health Mission State Project Manager J. Vijayalakshmi, RBSK State Coordinator Subramanyam, and Polavaram District Collector Dinesh Kumar, among others.
