Analysis finds socioeconomic and health factors drive most disability approval disparities

The Health Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Satya Kumar Yadav, announced plans to establish a large-scale genome analysis centre at the proposed Quantum Valley in Amaravati. This centre would focus on identifying genetic causes associated with rare diseases and advancing medical research. During an inauguration ceremony at the NATCO cancer centre at the Government General Hospital in Guntur on September 22, 2026, the Minister highlighted that the Quantum Valley centre would expand genetic testing and research, including cancer and rare disease genetic information.

The Guntur facility operates on a pilot basis, offering free genetic and biomarker tests for breast and lung cancer patients. These tests, which can cost up to ₹25,000 in private labs, would be provided free of charge at the Guntur centre. Genome sequencing could identify genetic alterations in cancer cells, aiding doctors in selecting tailored medicines and treatments.

The government also emphasized early cancer detection, conducting free screenings for oral, breast, and cervical cancers among the targeted population of 4.27 crore people. Around 2.65 crore individuals have been screened so far, leading to the identification of nearly 7,500 new cancer cases. Four comprehensive cancer centres were developed in Guntur, Visakhapatnam, Kurnool, and Kadapa in the first phase at a cost of ₹311 crore.

The second phase will include advanced facilities and additional cancer centres in Kakinada, Anantapur, and 11 teaching hospitals.