Today, November 7, 2024, marks National Cancer Awareness Day in India, a crucial initiative to raise awareness about the growing cancer burden in the country and inspire action towards prevention, early detection, and treatment. India is the first country to officially recognize this day, which coincides with the birth anniversary of Nobel Laureate Madame Marie Curie, whose work has significantly impacted cancer treatment.
Key Initiatives:
National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP): Launched in 1975, NCCP aims to generate awareness about cancer prevention and provide financial support for Information, Education, and Communication activities.
Tobacco Control: Measures have been implemented to discourage tobacco consumption through public health campaigns.
Comprehensive Primary Health Care: Ayushman Bharat- Health and Wellness Centres promote wellness activities and community-level health communication.
Nutrition Promotion: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India promotes healthy eating habits to reduce cancer risk.
The effort is that the citizens of the whole country can get the benefits of the schemes of the central government, anywhere in the country, there should be no restriction for that. This is the spirit of One Nation, One Health.Prime Minister Narendra Modi
India faces a rapid rise in cancer cases, primarily due to lifestyle changes, tobacco use, poor dietary habits, and inadequate physical activity. However, various types of cancer are preventable, and through widespread awareness and timely interventions, India is reducing its cancer burden.
Recent Developments:
Increased Funding: The Union Budget for FY 2024-25 has allocated Rs 4,000 crore for the National Health Mission to improve primary and secondary healthcare services.
Exemption of Cancer Medicines: Three critical cancer medicines have been exempted from customs duty, making them more affordable and accessible to patients.
Advances in Cancer Research: Indian scientists are contributing to the development of innovative treatments, such as magnetic hyperthermia-based therapy.
The development will focus on strengthening cancer registration networks and building linkages with other databases. This will enable more accurate cancer notification, which is currently notifiable in 16 states of India. Enhancing cancer screening and diagnosis, optimal treatment choices, and disease management are also crucial in the oncology space.
Improving Childhood Cancer Care:
A significant aspect of the way forward is improving and strengthening childhood cancer care services in India. This can be achieved through surveys and studies that provide inputs for enhancing these services. Additionally, increasing awareness and education about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment is vital.
Optimizing Real-World Evidence Framework:
The Real-World Evidence Framework for oncology will also play a significant role in the way forward. This involves leveraging cancer screening and diagnosis, optimal treatment choices, and disease management to improve cancer care. By doing so, India can reduce its cancer burden and improve outcomes for millions of individuals affected by this disease.
Strengthening Infrastructure:
Lastly, strengthening cancer care infrastructure is critical. This includes expanding cancer care facilities, improving healthcare infrastructure, and increasing access to affordable treatment options. By prioritizing cancer as a public health issue and implementing strategies to prevent, detect, and treat it effectively, India can significantly reduce the cancer burden and improve outcomes for those affected.
References:
1.https://mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/1493693747note_0.pdf
2.https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2024/nov/doc2024117431301.pdf
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)