TN Budget 2025 Highlights: Rs 21,906 Crore for Health, Focus on HPV Vaccination for Girls

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"Tamil Nadu is among the states with the highest incidence of cancer in the country. To ensure quality cancer treatment and appropriate care services for all, the government of Tamil Nadu remains committed to strengthening cancer care," said Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu during the budget presentation.  

To facilitate early diagnosis, Rs 110 crore will be invested over the next three years to enhance medical equipment and manpower in secondary and medical college hospitals. Rs 36 crore has been allocated to provide free Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines to 14-year-old girls, aiming to prevent cervical cancer.

TOI has reported that the incidence of cancer is higher among women than men, with estimates showing 51,753 cases in women and 44,733 in men for 2024. Top cancers among women include breast (26.3%), cervix (15.3%), ovary (5.5%), corpus uteri (3.9%), and mouth (3.0%). 

Further, a sum of Rs 40 crore has been allocated to expand healthcare access through mobile medical teams. These teams, working in collaboration with NGOs, will provide screenings for major cancers and heart diseases, along with lifestyle counseling.

National Health Mission: Rs 2,754 crore has been earmarked to enhance healthcare services across the state under this mission.

Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Maternity Benefit Scheme: An allocation of Rs 1,092 crore aims to support maternal health and reduce maternal mortality rates.

Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme: Rs 1,461 crore has been designated to provide financial protection for families against high medical expenses.

Ambulance Services: Rs 348 crore has been allocated to improve emergency medical transportation services.

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): The government has launched door-to-door screening programs to detect non-communicable diseases, a move that has earned Tamil Nadu a United Nations award.