Will Maharashtra Really Get Four New Cancer Hospitals?

Mumbai, July 15 (NationPress) As cancer cases continue to surge in Maharashtra, Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar announced on Tuesday during the Assembly session that four new cancer hospitals will be established across the state with the collaboration of the Public Health Department.

These facilities will be situated in Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, and Nashik.

Minister Abitkar emphasized that proactive measures are underway for the construction of these hospitals.

He made these remarks in response to a half-hour debate concerning the increasing number of cancer cases and the government's response to treat affected individuals.

"The rate of cancer among women is rising in the state. The government is responsive to this issue, and in alignment with the principle 'prevention is better than cure', a dedicated campaign will be initiated for cancer diagnosis throughout Maharashtra," stated the Minister.

Assembly member Sudhir Mungantiwar initiated a discussion regarding the rising cancer incidence among women.

Several Assembly members, including Rahul Patil, Praveen Datke, Raju Navghare, Bapu Pathare, Samadhan Avtade, Captain Tamil Selvan, Satyajit Deshmukh, Shweta Mahale, and Manjula Gavit, participated in this discussion, urging the state government to enhance medical resources for cancer patients.

Minister Abitkar noted that new treatment packages are being incorporated into the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana.

"The range of diseases covered by the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana will expand to include all types of cancer. We are also awaiting guidelines from the Central government regarding cervical cancer vaccination in the state. Once these directives are received, a vaccination drive will commence. Priority will be given to girls and women aged 9 to 30, particularly those aged 9 to 14," he added.

"Health screenings were conducted for 2.5 crore citizens, including one crore women. Among those examined, 13,000 women were identified as potential cancer patients and are undergoing further evaluation. Eight cancer diagnosis vans are operational across the state. A large-scale awareness campaign will also be launched to alleviate the fears surrounding cancer. The Central government has authorized 17 day care centers in the state for cancer treatment, providing comprehensive facilities at these centers," he stated.

Efforts are being made to allocate a fund of Rs 1 crore from the District Planning Committee Fund for cancer treatment and prevention. A meeting will be convened to ensure all necessary facilities for cancer diagnosis and treatment are available in district hospitals across the state.

The Minister announced that standard operating procedures will be developed to utilize corporate social responsibility funds for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

He urged public representatives to contribute their suggestions regarding the government's initiatives and programs aimed at cancer diagnosis and treatment.