Balabhadrapuram, a village in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district, is named after Balabhadra, the deity of fertility and agriculture. Known for its highly fertile land that produces three annual harvests—paddy, sugarcane, and other staples—it was once a thriving village. However, a more alarming issue has overshadowed its prosperity: cancer.
District Collector P. Prasanthi confirmed 32 cancer cases, nearly three times the national average. A 2022 Global Cancer Observatory study estimated the expected number of cases for a village this size at around 10-11. Unofficial figures, however, suggest nearly 100 cases. MLA Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy of BJP believes the actual number is much higher. Over the past three years, the disease has officially claimed 19 lives, but locals insist the toll is closer to 65.
Many suspect industrial pollution as the root cause, contaminating air and water, though no concrete evidence has emerged. The most common cancers reported are breast and cervical, along with cases of throat, intestinal, and thyroid cancer. To tackle the crisis, the government has deployed mobile screening units and dispatched medical teams. The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board is also investigating potential environmental triggers.
With fear gripping the community, financial struggles make treatment inaccessible for many. While government schemes offer some relief, uncertainty prevails. As authorities search for answers, the village clings to hope for a resolution.
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