Cancer registry centres open at Shirol and Karveer talukas

There was widespread fear after reports began circulating about the highest number of cancer patients registered in Shirol taluka of Kolhapur.

Taking cognisance of this development, the state government has set up cancer registry centres in Karveer and Shirol talukas. These centres will be the first of their kind in Western Maharahstra.

Those patients who will be registered in these centres will be eligible for treatment at the Tata Memorial Hospital. The Principal secretary of public health secretary is heading a committee that has addressed this issue. The committee members will coordinate with the hospital and patients and ensure that appropriate medicines are given.

These centres will help determine the exact number of people suffering from cancer. A Marathi TV channel, ABP Majha had telecast a special on the rising numbers of cancer-afflicted in Shirol taluka. The main reason attributed for this rise in cancer patients is because, Shirol, a vast plain area has been largely affected by salinisation and high use of pesticides. Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana had first alleged that Shirol had the highest incidents of cancer. Many had outright rejected this claim. Now that the registry centres have been set up, the state will determine the exact number of cancer-afflicted people.