Mangaluru: MLC Ivan D’Souza said that he has urged the govt to open satellite branches of the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research and Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Mangaluru. “The medical education minister has stated in his reply that it may require nearly Rs 300 crore to set up such satellite branches of cardiovascular and oncology specialities in Mangaluru. The govt is actively considering engaging in tie-ups with private hospitals to provide treatment for poor patients,” the MLC said.He was speaking after releasing a survey book titled ‘A Promising New Path in Cancer Awareness- 10,000+ Household Cancer Awareness Survey Report’ at Mangalore Institute of Oncology (MIO) on Saturday.Noting that cancer cases are on the rise in the country, D’Souza said people fear the disease due to the high cost involved in the treatment. “I will ensure that the survey report prepared by the MIO reaches people across the state. I will bring the cancer awareness campaigns of the institute to the notice of the govt. I will request the govt to consider the institute’s model to create awareness on cancer and ensure treatment to the people in the state,” he said, and appealed to the MIO to collaborate with the govt to ensure accessible treatment for patients.Dr D Suresh Rao, managing trustee of Sanjeevni Cancer Seva Trust and director of MIO, said that the majority of the cancer incidence in India is reported in people of the age group of 45-60 years. “Considering the risk, it is essential that we need to give emphasis to early diagnosis and prevention. The govt should launch a campaign for early diagnosis and prevention. We can conduct surveys, and the intervention is possible only by the govt as it involves larger initiatives. Many consider cancer a death sentence. We need to translate this fear into early detection,” he added.Media personality Walter Nandalike was present.
