Cancer develops from autonomy of any cell (madness of a cell) when it does not die and goes on growing. It may result in a cauliflower growth, an ulcer or a stricture infiltrating the luminal structures. In India, there are about 120-130 new cases per lakh of population every year. At any time there are about 20 lakh needing care with 30,000 beds only. It may reach 30 lakh by 2030. The problem is very high in a developing country like India where about 50 per cent patients present late. In stage I by proper and adequate treatment 90 per cent patients are cured. Considering late diagnosis and inadequate treatment, the total cure rate is only 30 per cent in India. Where as it is 50 per cent in the western world. let us try to catch them by early diagnosis.
In Odisha cancer care started in 1964 with a cobalt unit. It was the 8th unit in India. Now there are 29 regional cancer centres and more than 100 private cancer hospitals in India. Our regional Cancer Centre at Cuttack has a very tardy development and newer linac is waiting for installation for more than 2 years. With about 70, 000 patients, there are only 400 beds. As such, the State Government needs a lot more to do.
The common sites are mouth cavity, stomach, breast and uterine cervix. Oral cancer is about 20 per cent of all due to excess use of tobacco in different forms. This is preventable. let us think of our healthcare to win over cancer. We started cancer hospital in 2003. Now it is the most ultramodern cancer hospital of State with all facilities - newer microvascular free flap surgery in more than 500 cases, linac machine with IMRT and regular chemotherapy etc. A PET scan and IGRT installation is in progress. Definitely, we are benefitted by the Government schemes like ESI, BKKY etc. But we are waiting for OSTF and others to help the poor.
Cancer care is equally important like cancer cure. Even advanced cases need treatment and palliation. It is a problem to the family, society and the State. Now every care is available and cure rate is increasing. Except very few all are treated in State. let us put all our mind and heart to ‘FIGHT against ‘CANCER’.
(The writer is Medical Director, Panda Curie Cancer Hospital,Telengapentha, Cuttack-51, Mob No-09861054177)