Meghalaya observes National Cancer Survivors Day

The Civil Hospital, Shillong, and State Cancer Society, Meghalaya recently celebrated National Cancer Survivors Day on June 2, 2024, at the DAE-Civil Hospital Cancer Wing. This event honoured the strength and resilience of cancer survivors, while also raising awareness about the ongoing battle against cancer in the region.

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

 Dr Lyngdoh in her keynote address stated that the government is committed to ensure that people are provided with the best possible treatment for cancer and is working towards bringing the latest medical equipment and facilities to every district of the state. 

Further, 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.” 

According to the statement, the cancer wing of Civil Hospital, Shillong is providing care for more than 7000-8000 patients every year, and out of the budgetary expenditure almost close to 9 per cent of the state budget, is spent on health care.

Dr F.V. Kharshiing, Director, Health Services (MI), while emphasising on the importance of continued support for cancer patients and the importance of combined efforts said, “It’s about maintaining a positive mindset, believing in our ability to overcome challenges, and spreading awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention.”  

Guided by the State Cancer Society, the Government of Meghalaya in collaboration with Apollo Telemedicine Foundation and the World Economic Forum, in May 2023, launched the ‘Megh Can Care’ program to screen people for cancer and mobilise them for early diagnostics and treatment and enhance a responsible system of care delivery. The government has also launched a cancer helpline number 14410 to avail free screening.