Cancer not just medical challenge, it leads to social and economic crisis: Sakeena Itoo

Posted by admin_kas on 2025-02-04 21:52:40 |

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Jammu, Feb 04:

Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo Tuesday said that Cancer was not just a medical challenge but it also leads to social and economic crisis that affects thousands of families across J&K.

In her address during a day-long conference titled “Mission Cancer – J&K’s Fight Against Cancer in the coming Decade” at Government Medical College Jammu, the health minister said all the stakeholders should work collectively to enhance screening programs, promote preventive healthcare besides ensuring equitable access to modern treatment facilities across urban and rural areas for patients.

"There is an urgent need for a multi-faceted approach to tackle the rising incidences of cancer in Jammu and Kashmir," she said and highlighted the significance of early detection, advanced treatment infrastructure and public awareness, in reducing the burden of cancer.

She also lauded the efforts of healthcare professionals, doctors and paramedics, acknowledging their role in changing the healthcare landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

She called for greater government support, increased funding for cancer research and expansion of palliative care services.

She further said the present Government led by Omar Abdullah was committed to provide all possible assistance to Cancer patients with creation of best advanced facilities at both the State institutes of cancer at Jammu and Srinagar.

The conference was organised by GMC Jammu in collaboration with ‘BCPBF-The Cancer Foundation’ and ‘Friends of GMC Jammu’, to commemorate the World Cancer day.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Secretary Health and Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Director SKIMS Dr. Ashraf Ganai, Principal GMC Jammu Dr. Ashotush Gupta, noted Oncologist of J&K Dr. Sameer Kaul, Director ASCOMS Jammu, Deans of different specialties, HoDs, doctors and researchers besides large number of medical and paramedical students were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Farooq Abdullah spoke about the role of medical professionals for the society. He highlighted that the medical is very noble profession which touches numerous lives.

Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Health and Medical Education, spoke in length about the affect on families going through the burden of cancer.

He also called for organising maximum awareness camps in schools and colleges so that people are made abreast about the cancer disease and myths associated with it.

Principal GMC earlier in his welcome address, gave a brief about the evolution of GMC Jammu.