Committed towards affordable cancer treatment: Ampareen

SHILLONG, Sep 27: Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh has flagged concern over the alarming rise in cancer cases across India, especially in the Northeast, while affirming the government’s vision of ensuring access to accurate tests and affordable cancer treatment for all.
Addressing the ‘FICCI Roundtable for the North-Eastern region’ here on Friday, Lyngdoh stressed the goal of a cancer-free future generation. “Our vision is a cancer-free future where everyone has access to accurate tests and affordable treatment,” she said.
Organised by the Health Ministry, the event aimed to create a roadmap for making cancer care more accessible.
During the event, Lyngdoh acknowledged the efforts of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in ensuring cancer treatment is accessible to all.
“Cancer surveillance is our top priority. By leveraging technological advancements, we can save countless lives. This roundtable will help us in formulating a policy that is achievable. Let’s unite to forge partnerships amongst all stakeholders to battle against cancer,” the health minister said.
Principal Secretary of Health department, Sampath Kumar, on the other hand, emphasised a mission-based approach to addressing cancer.
He, in his address, highlighted Meghalaya’s Cancer Mission, which focuses on early detection.
Kumar also noted that cultural practices and lack of awareness aggravate the cancer burden.
During the programme, several experts, including Commissioner & Secretary of Health department Dr. Joram Beda and representatives from healthcare and pharma companies, discussed policy reforms, technological advances and treatment innovations for cancer.
It may be mentioned that the event was attended by around 40 stakeholders from Meghalaya and neighbouring states, including government officials, senior clinicians and representatives of hospitals, medtech and pharma companies.