Cancer Grid to boost diagnosis & treatment

T'puram: Health Minister Veena George announced the establishment of a Cancer Grid to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment across the state, ensuring timely and accurate care for patients at the grassroots level without the need to travel elsewhere.

This network connects cancer screening centres, hospitals, diagnostic facilities, and regional cancer centres, providing uniform access to high-quality cancer care.

The Cancer Grid standardizes treatment protocols and guidelines, enabling collaboration among specialists, fostering knowledge sharing, and promoting research and innovation in cancer treatment and prevention.

It systematically maps available screening facilities, outlines referral pathways for suspected cases, and identifies services at each stage of the cancer journey. If cancer is detected at one institution, the grid ensures follow-up services are accessible at nearby locations offering necessary specialised tests and treatments.

Patients can provide samples and return home, with test results communicated through the nearest health centre. If further care is required, they are directed to referral centres. Post-treatment follow-up is facilitated through community health centres. The Cancer Grid was established after a gap analysis of hospitals, leading to targeted improvements.

With cancer cases on the rise, the health department is prioritizing early detection and treatment. As part of this initiative, a year-long public awareness campaign, Aarogyam Aanandam-Akattam Arbudham, has been launched to promote cancer prevention.

The minister said that the Cancer Grid plays a vital role in ensuring timely access to specialized tests and treatment for those at risk.