STReTCH is a community- and family-based screening program in rural Telangana that integrates molecular diagnostics to identify and manage hypertension, diabetes, tuberculosis, and cervical cancer. The project leverages electronic data capture and geo-coded demographic information to ensure accurate documentation and targeted interventions.

Site:

Medchal Mandal, Telangana. Five field teams (data collector + phlebotomist) conduct household visits using electronic data capture with customized software and tablets; supervised by two Project Managers and one Coordinator; medical advice and referrals provided by a designated Medical Officer. HPV-positive participants receive counseling and are referred to hospital for further assessment and colposcopy as needed. Participants with diabetes or hypertension are provided medical and dietary advice, with newly diagnosed cases linked to appropriate care and ongoing follow-up coordinated through ASHA workers and government facilities.

• Number of Participants Screened for Diabetes, Hypertension & Tuberculosis: 5510
• Number of vaginal Swabs collected: 1747
• Number of women who tested positive for HPV DNA: 89
• Further samples, data analysis and consolidation are in progress.