Kerala Battles Cancer Challenge: Innovations Lead the Charge

Kerala faces a growing cancer crisis, reporting approximately 35,000 new cases annually. This surge primarily affects men, with tobacco and alcohol habits contributing to 50% of male cancer cases, mainly impacting the throat, mouth, and lungs. Breast cancer leads among women in Kerala, representing 30-35% of reported cases. This rising number of cancer patients has strained healthcare facilities in Kerala, leading to extended waiting times and compromised care. This situation emphasizes the urgent need to invest in advanced cancer treatment technologies and improve accessibility.

 

Recently, the Regional Cancer Centre Trivandrum (RCC) in Kerala took a significant step in addressing this growing cancer burden by introducing Varian's Halcyon Linear Accelerator, an advanced radiation therapy machine. Varian's 401st installation in India marks a shift in Kerala's cancer care landscape. Notably, two-thirds of the 15,000 new patients treated annually at the Regional Cancer Centre require radiotherapy as part of their treatment. The Halcyon Linear Accelerator's efficiency can streamline patient care by accommodating more patients in less time, treating around 40 patients per day. The result is shorter treatment durations, all while maintaining high standards of care through Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) techniques.

 

The Halcyon uses IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy), an advanced form of cancer care that plays a crucial role in cancer treatment due to its precision, adaptability, and safety features. These advancements allow oncologists to fine-tune treatment outcomes, minimize side effects, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients both during and after their treatment.

 

Dr. Sajeed A, Additional Director of RCC, emphasizes, "Our collaboration with Varian allows us to provide the latest in radiation therapy treatments. The installation of the Halcyon Linear Accelerator is set to alleviate the local cancer burden, providing hope and comfort for patients and their families in Kerala. We believe this development reaffirms the centre’s commitment to improving patient outcomes and fighting cancer in the region."