Shillong: Meghalaya is grappling with one of the highest cancer rates in India, particularly for mouth and oesophagus cancers, with a staggering 176 cases per one lakh population.
East Khasi Hills is facing an even more concerning situation, with 227 cases per lakh—over twice the national average of 100. Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh described the situation as a “big concern” for the state.
The alarming data, drawn from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), reveals that Meghalaya’s cancer burden is especially heavy in East Khasi Hills, which has witnessed a sharp rise in the detection of oral cancers. Lyngdoh stressed the urgency of addressing the crisis, noting, “We are taking administrative decisions to ensure we are ready to combat this disease in its current state.”
In response, the state government has devised a comprehensive strategy aimed at early diagnosis, affordable treatment, and bolstering cancer care infrastructure. In 2024, Civil Hospital reported over 8,000 cancer patients, including 1,649 new cases. To address this growing demand, the hospital is expanding its facilities, including a significant increase in the number of beds.
Additionally, NEIGRIHMS has ramped up its cancer treatment services, introducing advanced diagnostic tools such as PET scans and specialized surgeries. The government is also addressing the shortage of specialized medical professionals by sending doctors for advanced training. Efforts are underway to expand government hospital capacity and ensure that cancer treatment is accessible to everyone, particularly low-income groups.
A key initiative, “Meg Can Care,” has been launched to provide comprehensive cancer care across Meghalaya. This program, which operates in a mission mode, focuses on improving early detection at district and block levels, upgrading treatment facilities, and offering financial assistance for cancer treatment.
Through the Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS), the state government ensures that no citizen is burdened with the financial strain of cancer treatment, as the scheme covers all types of cancer.
Lyngdoh concluded, “The government is committed to tackling this health crisis with an inclusive approach. No citizen will be left behind in the fight against cancer,” underscoring the state’s dedication to minimizing out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring that everyone has access to quality cancer care.