Meghalaya’s healthcare stakeholders celebrate National Cancer Survivors Day

New Delhi: The Civil Hospital, Shillong and the State Cancer Society of Meghalaya marked ‘National Cancer Survivors Day’ with a special event at the DAE-Civil Hospital Cancer Wing.

The celebration honored the resilience of cancer survivors and aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing fight against cancer in the region.

In her keynote address, Dr Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Health & Family Welfare reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing top-notch cancer treatment and expanding access to advanced medical equipment and facilities across all districts of Meghalaya. “We have a long journey ahead, we shall not stop, we shall not say that we have done it all. Together this government will serve the people. It is not individuals, or ministers or any other doctor or staff, but together we will fight this,” she stated.

Shri Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare said, “By listening to our cancer survivors, it gives us a lot of hope, that if detected early, we can actually cure cancer. The key message here is that awareness is very important.” He highlighted that the cancer wing of Civil Hospital, Shillong treats more than 7,000 to 8,000 patients annually, a significant achievement supported by the government, which allocates nearly 9 per cent of the state budget to healthcare.

Dr. F.V. Kharshiing, Director, Health Services (MI), stressed the need for continued support for cancer patients and collective efforts in combating the disease. “From shared experiences, we’ve learned that the power to combat cancer lies within our hearts and souls. It’s about maintaining a positive mindset, believing in our ability to overcome challenges, and spreading awareness about early detection and prevention,” he said.

The program featured heartfelt testimonies from cancer survivors. One survivor expressed gratitude to the doctors and healthcare providers at Civil Hospital, Shillong, and urged others to take advantage of early screening and treatment facilities.

The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Health & Family Welfare; Shri Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare and Chairman of the State Cancer Society of Meghalaya; Dr. Joram Beda, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary of Health & Family Welfare; Dr. F.V. Kharshiing, Director of Health Services (MI); Dr. Lily S. Ch. Marak, Additional Director of Health Services; and Dr. Anisha Mawlong, Head of the Oncology Department at Civil Hospital.

Earlier this year, in February, Meghalaya hosted the Meghalaya Cancer Conclave with the theme “Close The Care Gap.” The event brought together oncologists, cancer researchers, scholars, NGOs, and top bureaucrats to address disparities in cancer care and ensure equitable access to treatment.

In May 2023, the Government of Meghalaya, guided by the State Cancer Society, launched the ‘Megh Can Care’ program in collaboration with Apollo Telemedicine Foundation and the World Economic Forum. This initiative aims to screen people for cancer, facilitate early diagnostics and treatment, and enhance the healthcare delivery system. Additionally, the government has introduced a cancer helpline number, 14410, for free screening services.