CAS4Media

Media and cervical cancer took centre stage in Purnia, Bihar, during a Critical Appraisal Skills (CAS) workshop held on 25–26 November, where journalists came together to strengthen responsible reporting on one of India’s most preventable yet least-discussed health challenges.

The workshop stressed the urgent need for accurate, evidence-based communication on HPV, screening, early detection, and prevention, especially in regions where awareness remains low and myths persist.

National CAS mentors introduced journalists to the 12 Questions of the CAS Media Rating Tool (MRT), guiding them on how to verify sources, avoid misinformation, and frame health stories with clarity and public relevance.
Participants engaged in group exercises to identify gaps in current media coverage and develop practical newsroom strategies to make cervical cancer a sustained beat.

The conversations in Purnia highlighted the critical role of regional media in reaching families, youth, and rural communities with life-saving information.