State has 76 more cases than the natl average of 100 per 1 lakh population
SHILLONG, Feb 5: Cancer cases in Meghalaya have reached alarming levels, with the state reporting significantly higher numbers than the national average.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, speaking on World Cancer Day, revealed that according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data, Meghalaya has 176 cancer cases per 1 lakh population.
The situation is even more concerning in East Khasi Hills, where the incidence rate stands at 227 cases per 1 lakh population, compared to the national average of about 100 cases per 1 lakh.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Lyngdoh said the government is now focusing on individualised patient care, recognising that each cancer patient faces unique challenges.
To enhance treatment capabilities, the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) is upgrading its facilities, with plans to introduce essential cancer tests soon.
Additionally, the state government intends to expand the cancer wing at Shillong Civil Hospital into a 200-bed facility. Lyngdoh urged the public to trust the healthcare facilities available in Meghalaya.
On average, the cancer wing at Shillong Civil Hospital attends to 8,382 outdoor cancer patients annually. Last year, 1,649 new cancer cases were registered, and 456 patients received radiotherapy at the facility.
The Health Minister highlighted that cancer detection is now possible even at the district level, as necessary equipment has been provided to ensure early diagnosis.
To strengthen the fight against cancer, the Meghalaya government is launching the “Meghalaya Can Care” project on a mission mode.
Lyngdoh admitted that out-of-pocket expenses for cancer treatment need to be reduced and emphasized that Meghalaya has the highest incidence of oesophagal and mouth cancer in India.
To address the shortage of specialised medical professionals, the state government is sending doctors outside for advanced training. Meanwhile, low-income patients are being referred to NEIGRIHMS, which is now equipped to conduct specialised cancer surgeries.
Lyngdoh advised people not to travel far for treatment and to trust the facilities available in the state for the treatment of cancer even as she said the state government is in coordination with top medical institutes in Assam, including the Guwahati Medical College and Hospital.
Furthermore, awareness campaigns are being conducted in collaboration with the Centre, the World Health Organization, and even local churches to spread knowledge about cancer prevention and early detection.