Robotic Surgery Introduced in Government Sector
Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced on Monday that the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) Thiruvananthapuram and Malabar Cancer Centre (MCC) Thalassery have introduced state-of-the-art cancer treatment facilities, including a robotic surgery unit. This marks the first time such technology has been implemented in the government sector.
Cancer Grid System to Streamline Care
Responding to a query from CPI(M) MLA V Joy in the Assembly, George highlighted the implementation of the Cancer Grid system as part of the Nava Kerala Action Plan-2 Aardram Mission. This network connects cancer patients, diagnostic labs, treatment centres, and medical institutions across all districts to enhance coordination and patient care.
The Cancer Grid integrates the three major cancer centres in Kerala with treatment units in medical colleges and cancer care units in the Health Department. It also links family health centres and district hospitals, ensuring seamless patient management.
Launch of Cancer Prevention Campaign
On February 4, 2025, Kerala’s chief minister inaugurated ‘Arogyam Anandam – Akattam Arbudham,’ a statewide cancer prevention campaign. During the first month, nearly 12 lakh people were screened, with 45,000 individuals—mostly women above 30—referred for further diagnostic tests.
Affordable Cancer Medicines Through ‘Karunya Sparsham’
The ‘Karunya Sparsham – Zero Profit Anti-Cancer Drugs’ initiative is making expensive cancer medicines accessible at company prices through select Karunya pharmacies. Within five months, medicines worth Rs 2.5 crore were distributed, offering discounts of up to 88% compared to market rates. Dedicated counters have been set up in all 14 districts, with plans to expand further.
Increased Budget for Cancer Drug Distribution
As reported by theweek, the Kerala government has significantly increased the budget for cancer drugs supplied through government hospitals. In 2024-25 alone, Kerala Medical Services Corporation Ltd (KMSCL) distributed Rs 27.43 crore worth of cancer medicines to medical colleges, district general hospitals, and cancer treatment centres.
Advanced Diagnostic and Treatment Facilities
To improve early cancer detection, the state has equipped government hospitals with cutting-edge imaging technologies, including PET scans, SPECT scans, and mammography. Kerala has also expanded radiation therapy options with High Energy Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machines, Telecobalt machines, and brachytherapy units.
Upgrading MCC to a Postgraduate Institute
With financial support of Rs 562.25 crore from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), MCC has been upgraded to a Postgraduate Institute of Oncology Science and Research. Efforts are also underway to transform both RCC and MCC into centres of excellence in digital pathology.
Innovations in Cancer Research and Treatment
RCC has developed ‘Cervi Scan’ for cervical cancer detection, earning recognition from the United Nations. Meanwhile, MCC has successfully implemented advanced treatments such as CART-cell therapy and ocular plaque brachytherapy for eye cancer.
These initiatives underscore Kerala’s commitment to improving cancer treatment, research, and accessibility, setting a benchmark for other states in India.