Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held a meeting with prominent oncologist of the country, Dr G K Rath, Professor Emeritus Department of Radiation and Oncology and Head of the National Cancer Institute, (NCI), AIIMS at New Delhi today. Since cancer cases are increasing at an alarming rate in Himachal Pradesh with growth rate of 2.2 percent as against 0.6 percent in the country besides North India registering the highest number of cases, detailed discussions were held regarding strengthening cancer treatment facilities and overall health infrastructure in the state.
Chief Minister disclosed that about 8500 cases were detected every year on an average and many go unnoticed and undetected in the remotest belts of the State. “It is my priority to provide best health facilities in every far reaching corner of the state and this is the main focus area of my Government,” said the Chief Minister. The State Government is also exploring the possibility of setting up a centrally funded National Cancer Institute at Hamirpur, said Sukhu. He stressed upon creating awareness amongst the masses about the fatal disease and urged holding cancer awareness programmes and organizing workshops in collaboration with the NCI.
He also underlined the need for more screening and detection so that proper treatment could be provided at an early stage of cancer. Besides, discussions were also held about the possibility of starting a pilot project for health vaccination of adolescent girls in this regard for a healthy future population. Dr. Rath apprised the Chief Minister that 50 percent of cancer is curable and also briefed about latest cancer treatment technology. Vivek Bhatia, Principal Private Secretary to the Chief Minister and Col K S Bashtu OSD to Chief Minister were also present in the meeting.
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