Free endoscopy scheme launched for cancer detection among farmers

Trichy: Delta Cancer Foundation (DCF), in association with Sri Ramakrishna Specialty Hospital, Trichy, has launched a free endoscopy screening initiative for early detection of gastrointestinal cancer in the Cauvery delta region on Friday. The drive would focus on the farming community, providing free endoscopic screening for five people per day throughout the year for providing preventive cancer care. The initiative will cover individuals above 40 years, and people with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms and those with a family history of cancer. In 2026, DCF said free surgery was introduced along with screening and three patients benefited from the 482 totally screened for stomach cancer. The foundation said stomach, esophagus, and digestive tract cancer shows early warning signs such as persistent acidity or indigestion, difficulty swallowing, loss of appetite, and chronic abdominal discomfort.