NAGPUR: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis issued a strong call on Saturday for a comprehensive approach to tackling cancer, emphasizing that prevention and early diagnosis are as crucial as treatment itself.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the ‘Oncology Beyond Borders’ global conference organized by the National Cancer Institute, Fadnavis highlighted the alarming surge in cancer cases over the past decade. This rise has positioned cancer as one of the most pressing challenges facing healthcare systems worldwide.
‘India has made significant strides in healthcare, yet cancer remains a major concern both nationally and globally,’ he stated. Fadnavis stressed that diseases like cancer do not respect borders or socio-economic barriers, urging collective action, knowledge exchange, and innovative solutions that transcend limitations.
The Chief Minister praised initiatives like the conference for fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and driving innovation in cancer care. He commended the National Cancer Institute’s role in delivering advanced treatments that benefit patients not just from India but from across the globe.
Fadnavis also spotlighted Maharashtra’s Maha Cancer Foundation, which aims to build a statewide cancer care network using a hub-and-spoke model to ensure access to quality treatment everywhere.
He underscored the vital need for increased investment in research, medical technology, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence to enhance early detection and improve treatment outcomes. ‘Early diagnosis and technological advancements are essential to boosting survival rates and reducing the overall burden of cancer,’ Fadnavis asserted, calling for unified efforts to turn the tide against this formidable foe.