Vatican offers free cancer screening for homeless women

Mobile clinic. Image Vatican Media

Source: Vatican News

Getting a medical check-up is something that probably does not cross the minds of most people living on the streets. Their lives are a daily struggle to find food, safe shelter and basic washing facilities.

Since the beginning of his pontificate, Pope Francis has recognized this need, and responded through Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the Papal Almoner by creating facilities such as showers under the Colonnade of St Peter's, accommodations like the 'Gift of Mercy' on Via dei Penitenzieri, and the 'Mother of Mercy' clinic under the Colonnade.

On Thursday, 18 April, the Caravan of Prevention was set up in the Vatican Square as the result of a collaboration between the Dicastery for the Service of Charity and Komen Italy. The association is dedicated to the prevention and fight against breast cancer in collaboration with the Agostino Gemelli University Policlinic Foundation IRCCS and Gemelli Isola.

The caravan will be present in the Vatican every two months. A pink ribbon, the symbol of prevention and research on the most widespread cancer among women, has been placed outside the 'Mother of Mercy' clinic.

On the first day, about 40 women were helped by the clinic and the Santa Marta Dispensary, were able to undergo diagnostic screenings for breast cancer. If any of the women were found to have a problem, they will be assisted with further examinations and all necessary treatments.

The initiative is just one of many carried out by the 'Mother of Mercy' clinic. Opened at the desire of Pope Francis, the clinic has become a functioning reality.

Since January 1, 2024, 4,429 healthcare services have been provided, including 2,054 general medical visits, 1,901 specialist visits, 115 dental visits, 359 laboratory tests conducted, and 4199 boxes of medicines delivered.

The clinic operates thanks to the support of 80 doctors, nurses, paramedics, and technicians who voluntarily offer their time and professionalism to serve the most vulnerable.