SHILLONG: The State Cancer Society of Meghalaya today organised the 2nd Meghalaya Cancer Conclave at Vivanta, Shillong, bringing together doctors from across the state and senior officials of the Health Department to strengthen cancer prevention and treatment efforts.
The conclave was attended by Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla as the chief guest and Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed as the guest of honour. Principal Secretary Sampath Kumar, Dr. Joram Beda, and other senior officials were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Shylla said that every cancer patient has a unique story and that the conclave highlights the diverse challenges faced by those affected. He stressed that society must confront the growing cancer burden with urgency and collective responsibility.
Highlighting the gravity of the issue, the Minister said India records around 1.56 million new cancer cases annually, while Meghalaya remains among the states with a high incidence of the disease. He pointed out that districts such as East Khasi Hills are particularly affected.
He attributed the high prevalence of cancer in the state to tobacco and alcohol consumption, lack of awareness, and delayed medical screening. Shylla noted that although the government has expanded screening initiatives over the past two years, public participation has declined.
Urging citizens to undergo regular health check-ups, the Minister said early detection is key to successful treatment. He reiterated that the government is providing free cancer treatment to patients across the state.
In a video message, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the state’s mission focuses on screening eligible populations and detecting cancer at an early stage. He added that nearly nine percent of the state budget has been allocated to healthcare.
He informed that Civil Hospitals in Shillong and Tura now provide free chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and palliative care, with advanced medical equipment under installation.
Principal Secretary Sampath Kumar stated that East Khasi Hills district continues to record one of the highest cancer incidences in the state, with 227.9 cases per one lakh male population. He identified late detection as a major factor and stressed the importance of early diagnosis.
Kumar said that currently, specialised cancer treatment facilities are available only in Shillong, while district-level centres are yet to be established. He added that efforts are underway to expand infrastructure and strengthen community outreach.
Highlighting government initiatives, he said sustained measures are being taken for early sample collection, diagnosis, and timely treatment. He also informed that a dedicated cancer hospital equipped with modern facilities has been operationalised and that plans are in place to establish cancer centres in every district.
On the occasion, the Health Minister launched several key initiatives, including the field implementation of the Meghalaya Mission for Cancer Prevention and Early Detection, the Cancer Screening App and screening devices, and a state-wide HPV testing programme.
He also inaugurated a collaborative project between the Government of Meghalaya and the Grace Cancer Foundation for cancer control in West Khasi Hills district.
During the programme, the Minister felicitated the best-performing district under the NP-NCD programme and formally launched the Health Atlas prepared by the State Health Systems Resource Centre, Meghalaya.
