Lucknow, March 31: The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is contemplating the inclusion of cancer, particularly pediatric cancer, in the list of notifiable diseases. This initiative aims to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
Notifiable diseases are those that health service providers, laboratories, and veterinarians are legally required to report to government authorities, specifically health departments.
A senior health official stated that mandatory reporting of childhood cancer and other cases would help authorities monitor disease spread and intervene to protect public health.
Amit Kumar Ghosh, the Additional Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary of Health, Family Welfare, and Medical Education, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening cancer care systems, which includes the possibility of declaring cancer a notifiable disease.
Ghosh emphasized that Uttar Pradesh is developing a model where systems, institutions, and stakeholders collaborate to ensure that every child suffering from cancer is identified, treated, and supported.
During a state-level consultation workshop held in Lucknow on Monday, he mentioned that through coordination and partnerships among departments, they are working towards ensuring widespread access to health services, financial security, and improved outcomes.
Poonam Bagai, a member of the Central Ethics Committee of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), founder of CanKids, and representative of Childhood Cancer International for the WHO Southeast Asia region, noted that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as a leading state in terms of financial security. The state has programs that extend support beyond its borders, ensuring continuity of care regardless of where treatment is sought.
Having survived cancer herself, Bagai stated that Uttar Pradesh has the potential to become a global leader in comprehensive childhood cancer care, demonstrating how large, high-burden areas can achieve 100% access, 100% financial security, and a 60% survival rate.
Approximately 20% of children suffering from cancer in India reside in Uttar Pradesh, accounting for about 4% of the global childhood cancer burden. The state reports around 14,700 cases of childhood cancer annually, with 52% currently receiving treatment.
–
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment