34 Government Day Care Cancer Centres Launched In State

Telangana Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha today launched district Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) set up in 34 government general hospitals across Telangana, from the Sangareddy Medical College.

Speaking at the event, the minister expressed serious concern over the rising number of cancer cases nationwide. "In Telangana, over 55,000 new cases are reported annually. Experts warn that in five years this could rise to more than 65,000 cases each year," he said. "In response to this challenge, we are prioritising cancer prevention and focusing on early diagnosis and treatment. We are consulting renowned oncologist Nori Dattatreya as we move forward."

The minister said that at present cancer patients were being treated at the MNJ and NIMS hospitals, and the growing number of patients was putting increasing pressure on those hospitals. "Moreover, traveling to Hyderabad for treatment has become a burden for many patients. To address this, the State government has decided to set up treatment services closer to patients' homes. As part of this initiative, day care cancer centres have been established in every district, with a total of 34 centres launched today. These facilities provide a range of services, including cancer screening, diagnosis, chemotherapy and palliative care. When needed, senior physicians from MNJ and NIMS will visit the centres to offer medical support," the minister said.

He also said that patients requiring chemotherapy could visit in the morning and return home by the evening.

"The government has also set up these centres to provide essential palliative care for patients in the terminal stages of cancer. By 2030, regional cancer centres will be established at the former district headquarters to ensure comprehensive cancer care across Telangana," he added.