Roadmap for making cancer care affordable and accessible in India

Meghalaya Health Minister Dr. Lyngdoh reaffirmed her commitment to a cancer-free future, advocating for accessible and affordable cancer treatment at the ‘FICCI Roundtable for North-Eastern Region.’ The event, organized by FICCI in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, aimed to discuss a roadmap for cancer care in India. Dr. Lyngdoh emphasized the need for accurate cancer tests and treatments, highlighting the importance of cancer surveillance as a key priority for Meghalaya. “By leveraging technology, we can save countless lives,” she said, stressing the need for partnerships to fight the disease.

FICCI Task Force Chair Raj Gore pointed out that the Northeast faces some of the highest cancer rates in India due to tobacco use and delayed diagnosis. He called for stronger prevention strategies and improved treatment infrastructure.

Shillong, reflecting the region’s economic landscape, can play a pivotal role in addressing the affordability aspect by fostering collaboration with healthcare providers to ensure accessible cancer care. With rising cancer rates in the Northeast, including a 2.79% increase in Meghalaya, the roundtable gathered over 40 stakeholders to forge solutions for this growing healthcare challenge.