Alarming! Meghalaya Records Highest Cancer Cases in India, Says Health Minister, East Khasi Hills Reports More Than Double of National Average

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis through early detection, improved treatment facilities, and financial aid.

Meghalaya has emerged as one of the Indian states with the highest cancer rates, particularly for oral and oesophagus cancer, according to state Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh. Citing data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), she revealed that the state records 176 cancer cases per one lakh population, while East Khasi Hills alone reports 227 cases per lakh—more than double the national average of 100 per lakh.

Lyngdoh acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating, “Meghalaya is, unfortunately, one of the highest detectors of mouth and oesophagus cancer, and we are taking administrative decisions to ensure that we are ready to face and combat this disease in its current situation.”
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis through early detection, improved treatment facilities, and financial aid.

Civil Hospital in Shillong has recorded a significant number of cancer patients. In 2024 alone, 8,382 outdoor cancer patients have been registered, with 1,649 new cases and 456 patients requiring radiotherapy. To enhance treatment capacity, the hospital’s radiotherapy unit is being expanded, and its bed strength will be increased from 50 to 200. Additionally, NEIGRIHMS provides advanced cancer treatments, including specialised surgeries and PET scans for diagnosis.

The Meghalaya government is taking urgent steps to bridge healthcare gaps. Lyngdoh highlighted the need for skilled medical professionals and revealed that doctors are being sent for specialised training to improve cancer care in the state.

“We are aware of the technical issues regarding the availability of specialised manpower. We are addressing this by sending doctors for training so they can return to the state and bridge the gap in our healthcare system,” Lyngdoh added.

She also assured that financial constraints would not hinder treatment, as the Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) covers all types of cancers. Lyngdoh said, “The MHIS scheme is very inclusive, and people can check the live dashboard on the MHIS website for details.”

To combat the growing cancer crisis, the state government has launched “Meg Can Care”, a comprehensive initiative aimed at early detection, better treatment access, and financial support for cancer patients. The program includes:

• Early detection services at district and block levels
• Upgrading cancer treatment facilities in government hospitals
• Financial assistance for treatment expenses
• Public awareness campaigns on tobacco control and cancer prevention

“We are delighted that the Chief Minister is seized of this problem, and hence we have already announced a project like Meg Can Care,” Lyngdoh stated. The government’s efforts focus on reducing out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring that every citizen receives the necessary medical attention.

With these proactive measures, Meghalaya is striving to curb its high cancer rates and improve healthcare accessibility for all.

Also Read: 272 Candidates to Contest Meghalaya Autonomous Council Polls, Only 19 Women in Fray

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