State-level seminar organised in Panchkula
Chandigarh : Haryana Health Minister Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that considering the rising number of cancer cases in Haryana, the state government is making dedicated efforts to prevent cancer. A strong and comprehensive approach is being adopted to ensure better treatment and healthcare facilities, even for patients in remote areas.
Health Minister, Kumari Arti Singh Rao made people aware about the disease on World Cancer Day. A state-level seminar was organised in Panchkula today on World Cancer Day.
The Health Minister mentioned the state government’s initiative for cancer patients including free travel in roadways and pension benefits. In 2024-25, 9,408 passes have been issued to cancer patients for free travel, and 3,428 patients are receiving a monthly pension. Various awareness rallies, seminars, and health camps were held across the state to educate people about cancer prevention, she added.
The minister further pointed out few steps to reduce the risk of cancer such as, tobacco and alcohol consumption are among the main causes of cancer, and avoiding them can help prevent the disease. She advised people to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding processed and red meat. Regular physical activity and yoga should be included in daily routines, as exercise plays a key role in reducing cancer risk.
Speaking at the seminar, Additional Chief Secretary, Health Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, said that the Atal Cancer Hospital in Ambala Cantt is providing top-class treatment not only to Haryana’s residents but also to patients from neighbouring states. Besides this, free cancer treatment is available at PGIMS Rohtak, the National Cancer Institute, Jhajjar, and five cancer day-care centers across the state. Under the Population-Based Screening Scheme, around 75 lakh people have undergone primary cancer screening.
Director, Health Department, Dr. Manish Bansal, said that the main goal of World Cancer Day is to educate people about the disease and for the early detection and promotion of a healthy lifestyle to prevent cancer.
