Is Gujarat Becoming a Leader in Lung Cancer Care?
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Synopsis
Gujarat is emerging as a national leader in lung cancer treatment, having treated over 4,000 patients at GCRI in just five years. The state’s focus on affordable healthcare and advanced technology makes it a beacon for those in need of essential cancer care.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat has treated over 4,397 lung cancer patients at GCRI from 2020 to 2024.
- More than 3,256 patients benefited from the PMJAY-MA health scheme.
- Early screening and tobacco cessation are crucial for improving survival rates.
- GCRI uses cutting-edge technologies like CyberKnife and TomoTherapy.
- Gujarat's medical tourism is growing rapidly, with a 33% growth rate.
Gandhinagar, July 31 (NationPress) Gujarat is establishing itself as a pivotal center for advanced lung cancer treatment, with the Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute (GCRI) in Ahmedabad having treated 4,397 patients from 2020 to 2024.
Among these, 3,256 patients availed the PMJAY-MA health scheme, highlighting the state's dedication to providing affordable and high-quality cancer care.
On the occasion of World Lung Cancer Day, GCRI officials emphasized the importance of early screening and tobacco cessation, noting that over 40 percent of lung cancer cases in India are identified at advanced stages, which drastically lowers survival rates.
GCRI Director Dr. Shashank Pandya stated, “Awareness is our strongest tool. Early detection, quitting tobacco, and timely treatment can significantly enhance survival rates.”
The annual influx of patients seeking treatment at GCRI has consistently increased: 700 in 2020, 813 in 2021, 865 in 2022, 933 in 2023, and 1,086 in 2024. Out of the total of 4,397 patients treated, 3,597 were men, 799 women, and one child, with 1,426 patients hailing from other Indian states—further establishing Gujarat’s stature in cancer care.
GCRI has also become a significant contributor to India’s medical tourism sector, providing globally competitive treatment options utilizing state-of-the-art technologies such as CyberKnife, True Beam, TomoTherapy, Robotic Surgery, and advanced diagnostics like PET-CT, PSMA Scan, NGS, and 3 Tesla MRI.
Thanks to its 2006 Medical Tourism Policy, the state has experienced a 33 percent growth rate in medical tourism, surpassing the national average of 20 percent. Key cities such as Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Surat are home to advanced super-specialty hospitals recognized for their expertise in fields like cardiology, neurosurgery, orthopaedics, infertility treatment, and oncology.
Ahmedabad’s expansive Civil Hospital - the largest in Asia - along with private institutions like Zydus Hospitals and Shalby Hospitals, provide NABH/NABL-accredited services, advanced diagnostics, and high-quality surgeries at a fraction of international prices.
The state's affordability, efficient medical visa support, cashless facilities, and well-developed infrastructure make Gujarat particularly attractive to Non-Resident Gujaratis (NRGs) and international patients from Africa, SAARC nations, and the Middle East.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize Gujarat's unwavering commitment to enhancing its healthcare framework, particularly in cancer treatment. With impressive patient statistics and a focus on affordability, the state is leading by example in the region. Such initiatives not only improve survival rates but also establish Gujarat as a premier destination for medical tourism, showcasing India's capabilities on a global stage.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lung cancer patients have been treated in Gujarat?
Over 4,397 lung cancer patients have been treated at GCRI from 2020 to 2024.
What is the PMJAY-MA health scheme?
The PMJAY-MA health scheme is a government initiative providing health coverage for cancer treatment, benefiting over 3,256 patients in Gujarat.
Why is early detection important in lung cancer?
Early detection significantly improves survival rates, as over 40% of lung cancer cases in India are diagnosed at late stages.
What advanced technologies are used in cancer treatment at GCRI?
GCRI utilizes innovative technologies such as CyberKnife, True Beam, TomoTherapy, and advanced diagnostics like PET-CT, PSMA Scan, and more.
How is Gujarat positioned in the medical tourism sector?
Gujarat has seen a 33% growth rate in medical tourism, surpassing the national average, thanks to its advanced healthcare facilities and affordable procedures.
