Scientists for People seeks thorough probe into Balabhadrapuram cancer cases, writes to APPCB-OxBig News Network

Doctors conducting a door-to-door survey to identify cases of various cancers at Bhalabadrapuram village of Bikkavolu Mandal in East Godavari district.
| Photo Credit: BY ARRANGEMENT

Scientists for People, a Hyderabad-based nonproft of scientists, has written to Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) chairman P. Krishnaiah on Sunday (March 30, 2025), demanding an urgent and thorough investigation into the Balabhadrapuram cancer cases and their potential link to environmental pollution.

Expressing concern at the “alarmingly high” rate of cancer cases in the village in East Godavari district, the scientists said they are deeply troubled by the statements of Minister for Health Satya Kumar Yadav and District Collector P. Prasanthi, which, the scientists said, tried to undermine the issue by saying the incidence rate falls within the national average.

“A recent Health Department survey identified 38 suspected cancer cases in the village. The incidence rate is, in fact, more than four times the Andhra Pradesh State average and significantly higher than the national average,” the letter says, adding that the government should not dismiss people’s suffering.

In addition to an investigation into the matter, the organisation also sought accountability for the “inaccurate” public statements made by the government officials and demanded that the gravity of the situation be acknowledged.

The organisation required immediate action to prevent further suffering and mitigate any potential environmental hazards that may be contributing to this crisis. It urged the APPCB to conduct similar surveys in neighbouring villages to determine if the elevated cancer incidence is localised in Balabhadrapuram or indicative of a broader environmental issue.

Also, the organisation expressed concern regarding the composition of the investigation teams, which, they said, lack the necessary expertise in cancer epidemiology.

Pointing out that this deficiency raises serious doubts regarding the validity and comprehensiveness of any findings they may produce, the organisation requested that the APPCB ensure that any investigation into the Balabhadrapuram cancer cluster includes qualified cancer epidemiologists.