- Diagnostics
- 1 min read
Include cancer treatment in govt insurance: Dr Shantha
Dr Shanta highlighted the need for change in healthcare methodology to prevent cancers.
“We cannot complain about the cost of the treatment for cancer because it involves a lot of research. Government has the role to include the treatment in health insurance schemes. Insurance is the only answer to enable the treatment reach the poor,” Dr Shanta told reporters after inaugurating the 32nd annual conference of association of radiation oncologist of India, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Chapter conducted in association with Dr G Viswanathan CBCC cancer centre, Trichy on Friday.
Dr Shanta highlighted the need for change in healthcare methodology to prevent cancers. “The way healthcare is dealt with must change. Focus should be on primary healthcare so that cancers can be prevented. Even medical institutions do not teach students about prevention resulting in graduates unaware of the illness,” said the Ramon Magsaysay awardee.
Pointing out that the incidence of cancer was increasing by 1% every year, Dr Shanta put breast and lung cancers on top of the list which affected people the most nowadays.
“Increase in life span and lifestyle changes are main reasons for cancers. Incidences of oral cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, cervical cancer and breast cancer are high. If we can eradicate tobacco, we can cut the incidence by 30 per cent. The responsibility has to be equally shared between the government, public and doctors,” said Dr Shanta.
Earlier, commissioner of police, Trichy A Arun spoke at the inaugural about the prevention of cancer and treatment for the illness.
COMMENTS
All Comments
By commenting, you agree to the Prohibited Content Policy
PostBy commenting, you agree to the Prohibited Content Policy
PostFind this Comment Offensive?
Choose your reason below and click on the submit button. This will alert our moderators to take actions