By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 24: With cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and mobile units soon to be a part of cancer care in Meghalaya, the state government aims to prioritise early detection and accessible treatment of cancer in the state.
Head of the Oncology Department at Civil Hospital, Dr Anisha Mawlong, who was the chief guest at a recent gathering of cancer survivors, shared insights on how AI and other innovations are reshaping cancer care in the region.
“We’re bringing in AI-powered tools that could change everything,” Dr. Mawlong said, adding, “These devices can capture and analyse images in real-time, helping us detect abnormalities right from the field.”
With cloud-based breast and cervical screening tools, nurses will soon be able to conduct screenings in remote areas, upload images instantly and receive AI-driven alerts about potential issues. “It means even if a nurse misses something, the device will catch it and notify us,” she added, explaining that this will help ensure accuracy, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources.
Three new radiation machines, including a CT simulator and a brachytherapy machine, are expected to be operational by March. While two machines are state-funded, the third, a linear accelerator supported by Tata Hospital, is pending approval from the Department of Atomic Energy.
“We’re looking forward to commissioning these machines by early next year,” Dr. Mawlong said, noting that the equipment will significantly boost the hospital’s capacity to offer radiation therapy.
In addition to new treatment facilities, the state government is introducing mobile cancer screening vans to bring services closer to those in need. “People in rural areas can’t always reach us for screenings. With these mobile units, we’ll be able to take cancer care directly to their doorstep,” Dr. Mawlong said.
The hospital’s recent collaboration with Apollo Hospitals on a cancer screening pilot project wrapped up on October 31, having screened a high number of cases in East Khasi Hills.
“The pilot showed us how to approach screenings on a larger scale, and now, the State Cancer Society is taking the project across Meghalaya,” said Dr Mawlong.
Travel costs can often discourage patients from completing their treatment, but Dr. Mawlong explained that financial assistance is now available. “For patients needing regular treatment, we’re covering travel expenses so they don’t have to skip appointments,” she said.
