Vidarbha becoming cancer capital, warns Datke
"Vidarbha is becoming the cancer capital. This isn't just a health crisis, it's a wake-up call," Datke said during a legislative discussion, urging the govt to subsidise cervical and breast cancer vaccines and promote early diagnosis through govt hospitals.
Datke recalled the first community-driven initiative led by Nagpur-based corporator Rupa Rai under the CSR wing of Ankur Seeds and Birla Foundation. With support from Union minister Nitin Gadkari and CM Devendra Fadnavis, vaccines were made available to over 20,000 girls in Nagpur.
"The vaccine initially cost a fortune, but thanks to Adar Poonawalla's contribution of 1.25 lakh doses to the state, it's now available at Rs945," he noted.
The Nagpur Central MLA stressed that most citizens remain unaware or hesitant to take the vaccine due to myths and lack of outreach. "Cervical cancer is caused by a virus (HPV), and breast cancer is increasingly linked to genetics, hormonal treatment, and lifestyle changes.
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We must launch an aggressive awareness campaign. Citizens should not fear cancer, they should fear ignorance," he said.
Datke demanded that the state provide cervical and breast cancer vaccines under the MLA fund and recommended setting up a dedicated women's cancer hospital in Nagpur. He also asked the govt to make positron emission tomography (PET) scans — the essential first step in cancer detection — available free of cost at all govt hospitals.
"The test alone costs Rs25,000, which makes early detection unaffordable for most," he added.
He also appealed for municipal corporations and councils to reserve budgetary provisions specifically for cancer treatment, particularly for women. "Even though the govt has sanctioned Rs72 crore for a cancer hospital, only Rs15 crore was disbursed over the last three years," he said.
Responding to the concerns, state health minister Prakash Abitkar acknowledged the urgency.
"Awareness is critical. Many patients panic upon hearing the word 'cancer', when in reality, early detection improves outcomes significantly. We have already launched a strong campaign and are working on extending PET scan services under tertiary care," he assured.
Abitkar also promised to discuss the proposal to allow vaccine procurement through MLA funds with deputy CM and finance minister Ajit Pawar. "We are committed to improving access and will pursue all necessary projects for Nagpur," he said.
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