At 2.2%, cancer growing faster in Himachal than national average of 0.6%, says CM Sukhu
Rath apprised CM Sukhu that 50% of cancer is curable and also briefed about the latest cancer treatment technology
Himachal Pradesh has a cancer growth rate of 2.2% as against 0.6% in the country, said chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. He met prominent oncologist of the country, GK Rath, who heads National Cancer Institute (NCI), AIIMS, in New Delhi on Wednesday.
“Since cancer cases are increasing at an alarming rate in Himachal Pradesh with a growth rate of 2.2 % as against 0.6 % in the country, detailed discussions were held regarding strengthening cancer treatment facilities and overall health infrastructure in the state,” said the CM. Sukhu said about 8,500 cases were detected every year on average and many go undetected in the remotest belts of the state.
“It is my priority to provide the best health facilities in every far-reaching corner of the state and this is the main focus area of my government,” said the CM. The state government is also exploring the possibility of setting up a centrally-funded national cancer institute in Hamirpur,” said Sukhu.
He stressed creating awareness amongst the masses about the fatal disease and urged holding cancer awareness programmes and organising 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 vaccination of adolescent girls in this regard.
Rath apprised the CM that 50% of cancer is curable and also briefed about the latest cancer treatment technology.