Land allocated to set up another Cancer Hospital in Tripura: CM

BY TC News Desk

Agartala, 4^th February 2024:  In a significant move to enhance cancer care, Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha of Tripura declared on Sunday that the state government has dedicated 15 acres of land for the establishment of a new cancer hospital in the North district.

The announcement was made during an event commemorating World Cancer Day at the A B Regional Cancer Hospital in Agartala. Dr. Saha underscored the day’s theme, emphasizing the need to bridge the care gap in cancer treatment. He urged timely intervention, citing increased chances of recovery when treatment is sought promptly.

Addressing the prevalence of oral cancer in the North East region, Dr. Saha, also the Health Minister of Tripura, stressed the importance of awareness campaigns and lifestyle choices in reducing cancer rates.

“The incidence of oral cancer is notably high in the North East region. By raising awareness, supporting cancer patients, and discouraging habits like tobacco use and alcohol consumption, along with avoiding single-use plastic, we can effectively reduce cancer cases. Prevention is always better than cure,” remarked Dr. Saha.

Commending the performance of the Atal Bihari Regional Cancer Hospital (ABRCH) in Agartala, he highlighted the hospital’s reputation as one of the premier cancer institutes in the North East. Dr. Saha announced the approval of a proposal during a cabinet meeting to allocate 15 acres of land, free of cost, to Dr. R Ravi Kannan, Director of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC), for establishing a new cancer hospital in the North District.

“The new hospital aims to benefit the residents of Unakoti as well. The decision is rooted in addressing the high incidence of cancer in North and Unakoti districts, attributed to dietary habits and tobacco use,” he added.

The event, attended by Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, National Health Mission director DK Chakma, Director Health Service Supriya Mallik, and others, highlighted the commitment of the state government to providing quality cancer care at affordable rates.