Health Minister Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh stresses accessible cancer care at Shillong event

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 27, 2024

The Health & Family Welfare Department, Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), organized a Roundtable on “Roadmap for Making Cancer Care Affordable and Accessible in India” at the State Convention Hall, Shillong on Friday. The event was attended by key stakeholders from government, healthcare, and industry.

The Roundtable was graced by Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, who emphasized the importance of ensuring affordable and accessible cancer care for all. Notable attendees included Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary; Dr. Joram Beda, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary; Prof. (Dr.) Nalin Mehta, Director of NEIGRIHMS; and Raj Gore, Co-Leader of FICCI Task Force on Cancer Care.

The discussions focused on key areas such as enhancing early detection and screening, strengthening cancer care infrastructure, fostering public-private partnerships, and addressing the affordability and access challenges in cancer treatment. Special attention was given to the high prevalence of tobacco-related cancers in the North Eastern region, particularly in Meghalaya.

Key recommendations included expanding cancer treatment centres, increasing mobile screening units, implementing financial support schemes, and promoting tobacco control initiatives.

The FICCI Cancer Care Roundtable highlighted the urgent need to improve cancer care services in the North East and expressed optimism that through sustained efforts, affordable and accessible cancer care can be achieved.