Convincing evidence on increase in cancer rate

The 'Aardram Mission' was launched by the Kerala government to collect the full basic health information of the citizens of each region and identify lifestyle diseases at an early stage and prepare treatment based on that information. 50 lakh people were screened for diseases as part of this scheme, of which 1,10,781 were diagnosed with cancer risk. This is the latest convincing evidence that cancer has become a rapidly spreading disease in Kerala. Those who have been diagnosed with cancer risk have been referred for further treatment. However, early detection of the risk of cancer can be useful in providing the best treatment services with care. Unlike in the past, many types of cancers can now be completely cured if treated at an early stage.

The RCC, the state's premier centre for cancer treatment, and other centres are providing the best modern treatment for cancer. The Kerala State Health Department has now conducted the second phase of testing under the name 'SHAILI'. Of those tested, 23,21,315 were found to be at risk of lifestyle disease, 1,45,867 were referred for TB testing and 2,10,641 for respiratory tests. As part of the project, 54,772 bedridden patients, 85,551 people in need of assistance and 16,31,932 elderly people have been visited and provided follow-up services. The health department must conduct special studies on how so many people are becoming cancer patients.

While a vaccination programme has been formulated to prevent cervical cancer, only a handful of districts have been covered under the scheme. It should be extended and implemented in all districts. While such a vaccine can be availed in private hospitals, the cost of taking such a vaccine in multiple instalments is not affordable for the common man. Similarly, the government should launch special schemes on the 'Aardram' model to identify those who have been undergoing cancer treatment for years and provide them with facilities including financial assistance. The government can also launch schemes that will pave the way for wealthy private individuals to take over the treatment cost of cancer patients. Since not everything can be done by the government alone, there is nothing wrong with cooperating with private companies, individuals and so on.

Ninety per cent of the food consumed by Keralites comes from other states. The complaint that vegetables have high pesticide content has been there for a long time. There is a system to check all this, but they are in a dormant state. Meat and fish are now coming to Kerala from north Indian states also. The chemicals used to keep it from spoiling can cause serious health problems for humans. Local cultivation of vegetables should be promoted as part of the plan to prevent cancer. Neighbourhood groups, private organisations, resident associations and others can take up such responsibilities without entrusting all the responsibility to the government. Cancer can be prevented to a great extent even if food that is free from toxins can be made available.