Dulloo calls for creation of Cancer Registry and early detection protocols in collaboration with ICMR
Srinagar : Chief Secretary, Atal DullooTuesday held detailed consultations with leading healthcare institutions and medical experts regarding the formulation of a comprehensive cancer control strategy for Jammu and Kashmir aimed at strengthening awareness, screening, diagnosis, treatment and preventive oncology across the Union Territory.
The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department; Director, SKIMS; Principal, Government Medical College, Srinagar/Jammu/SKIMS Medical College; Managing Director, National Health Mission; representatives from Indian Council of Medical Research and Tata Memorial Centre besides faculty members and experts from various medical colleges and healthcare institutions of the UT.
During the deliberations Chief Secretary outlined a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing cancer prevention and management in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the necessity for extensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) initiatives to raise public awareness about cancer prevention and the importance of early diagnosis. A key component of the strategy is the establishment of a robust Cancer Registry to facilitate the collection and analysis of disease-related data, alongside implementing population-based screening in line with Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines. Emphasizing the critical nature of early detection and timely management, the Chief Secretary noted that these factors are essential for reducing the cancer burden and improving survival rates. He called for adherence to established medical protocols in patient treatment while promoting preventive oncology measures to protect the population from cancer. In reviewing progress, the Chief Secretary directed expert committees to develop concrete action plans within a month, focusing on analyzing cancer prevalence and existing treatment facilities in the region. He also stressed the need for capacity building and strengthening healthcare manpower to effectively implement the proposed strategy. Additionally, he instructed the Health and Medical Education Department to form a dedicated core team of professionals from various medical colleges to ensure coordinated and timely execution of the cancer control plan. The Chief Secretary urged for the expedited development of comprehensive screening guidelines in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research to facilitate early disease detection. During the meeting, health experts shared insights on cancer prevalence and the challenges faced by patients, particularly in remote areas, regarding timely diagnosis and treatment. They provided suggestions to enhance cancer care infrastructure, improve access to treatment facilities, and deliver quality oncology services closer to patients’ homes throughout the Union Territory.
