Government Strengthens Cancer Care: Comprehensive Initiatives and Expanded Access

A 2024 study found that residents near river drains are at a higher risk of cancer due to elevated levels of lead, iron, and aluminium. Efforts to enhance cancer care include new institutes, extended health schemes, generic medicine outlets, and initiatives like AMRIT and NP-NCD for better access and affordability.

A recent 2024 study highlighted a significant health threat for residents living near river drains, revealing a heightened risk of cancer due to elevated levels of hazardous substances like lead, iron, and aluminium, surpassing permissible limits, according to the ICMR's report to Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.

In response, the government has ramped up efforts to improve cancer care, with approvals for 19 State Cancer Institutes and 20 Tertiary Care Cancer Centres to provide state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment services. Key facilities such as the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar, Haryana, and a new campus of the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute in Kolkata have been established to bolster cancer care services across the nation.

Furthermore, the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana extends cancer treatment coverage to 55 crore individuals, offering comprehensive packages, while the Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) initiative ensures access to discounted medicines. The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) further strengthens infrastructure and resource development to address non-communicable diseases, including cancer, ensuring broader access to preventive and care measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)