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Hope in progress

Drop in CM Cancer Relief Fund registrations in Jalandhar
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Patients admitted at a cancer ward of a private Hospital in Jalandhar. Tribune Photo: Malkiat Singh
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The Mukh Mantri Punjab Cancer Rahat Kosh (MMPCRK) scheme in Jalandhar has seen a significant drop in registrations despite an increase in cancer cases. Since its inception in 2012, a total of 4,537 patients have registered under the scheme, but the numbers have dwindled in recent years.

In 2024, only 100 patients (53 males and 47 females) registered under MMPCRK, a stark contrast to 494 registrations in 2024, 260 in 2021, and 238 in 2022. The sharp decline in registrations comes even as cancer incidence rises in the region, with a roughly 15-20% increase in cases.

Private hospitals, including Patel Hospital and Capitol Hospital, are treating the majority of cancer patients in Jalandhar, with Patel Hospital alone handling over 3,500 patients annually. Dr. Shamit Chopra, Head and Neck Surgical Oncologist and Director at Patel Hospital, mentioned, “The cancer incidence in Punjab is higher than the national average. Unfortunately, over 70-80% of patients report at stage 3 or 4, making early diagnosis crucial. Timely diagnosis and screening could prevent metastatic cancers, which is vital for better outcomes.”

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Dr. Gurmeet Lal, Civil Surgeon of Jalandhar, noted that the decrease in registrations is partly because many patients now prefer the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, which offers up to Rs 5 lakh in benefits, compared to the Rs 1.5 lakh available under MMPCRK. “Patients can’t avail both schemes simultaneously, so many opt for Ayushman Bharat for more financial relief,” he explained.

Doctors also point to late-stage cancer diagnoses in the region, with many cases being reported at advanced stages due to delayed screening and awareness. Common cancers among women include breast and cervical cancer, while in men, gastrointestinal cancers, head and neck cancers, and prostate cancer are prevalent.

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Medical experts emphasise the importance of early diagnosis and screening to prevent metastatic cancers, which are often diagnosed too late to be treated effectively. Awareness campaigns and improved diagnostics could play a key role in reducing the cancer burden in the region.

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