Jaipur

C P Radhakrishnan on Saturday called for stronger coordination among cancer treatment institutions across the country, saying better sharing of knowledge and technology can improve treatment outcomes and widen access to quality care.

Addressing the 23rd Cancer Survivors' Day organised by Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Jaipur, he said advances in cancer care should reach hospitals in both the public and private sectors so that more patients can benefit.

He said greater cooperation and understanding among institutions would strengthen the fight against the disease. Referring to the rising cancer burden, he cited estimates from the Indian Council of Medical Research National Cancer Registry Programme, which projects over 15 lakh cancer cases annually in India.

The Vice President said government initiatives are focusing on prevention, early detection and affordable treatment. He noted that more than 68 lakh cancer treatments worth over Rs 13,000 crore have been delivered under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.

He added that day-care cancer centres are being established in district hospitals nationwide, with more than 450 already functioning.

Speaking on prevention, he referred to the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign aimed at protecting girls from cervical cancer, and appreciated efforts of the Union Health Ministry and the Government of Rajasthan.

Radhakrishnan also stressed continued public awareness about the risks of smoking, tobacco use, drug abuse and unhealthy eating habits, saying lifestyle choices significantly influence cancer incidence.

Calling cancer survivors “warriors”, he said their journeys inspire hope for others battling the disease. He also acknowledged the dedication of doctors and caregivers.

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Haribhau Bagade, Gajendra Singh Khimsar and hospital chairman Navrattan Kothari were present at the programme.