Lung, stomach, nasopharynx, breast and cervix cancer are the most common cancers prevalent in Manipur, senior consultant, radiation oncology, Dr Thaodem Tomcha Singh said at the occasion of World Cancer Day observation at American Oncology Institute (AOI), Babina Speciality hospital, Imphal, Saturday.
The senior consultant said that cancer treatment in Manipur has advanced to global standard in terms of technology and treatment meted as such in-state treatment is a viable option.
Dr Tomcha stated that lack of awareness among people about the advancement has resulted in unnecessary expenditure for cancer treatment.
“The latest advancement in cancer drugs and treatment are readily available in Manipur, there is no need to go outside for such treatment,” he said.
The senior consultant maintained that precision in cancer care is largely dependent on technology. Lack of proper medical equipment has been the primary reason for slow growth in cancer care in the state, he added.
He highlighted that AOI is the only medical institute in the Northeast which houses the latest linear accelerator ‘Halcyon’.
Tomcha added that more than 900 patients have been successfully treated so far with the radiation machine.
He further said an ‘iodine therapy’ facility for thyroid cancer patients will be provided at the institute by May, 2023.
Dr Tomcha pointed out that cancer patients from low-income families can avail for the treatment using the CMHT card. He further stated that nearly 90 percent of the patients at the institute were undergoing treatment using the CMHT card.
AOI Medical oncologist Dr Shibashish Bhattacharyya was also present during the conference.
Also Read:
World Cancer Day 2023: '2.25 million cancer cases in India'
Diabetes in the Elderly - Goal should be a good quality of life
