Kochi Cancer Centre to start chemo

Kochi: The Kochi Cancer Institute and Research Centre would finally start chemotherapy – the treatment using drugs to destroy cancer cells - from next week. However, the authorities are running from pillar to post to set up a laboratory before the formal launch of the specialised ward. “Two patients have been given the date next week. However, once treatment begins, we need to conduct blood checks on a daily basis, and that calls for a lab. The setting up of the same is yet to be done though key equipment has arrived,” said a senior official at the Centre.

The authorities have taken up the laboratory issue with the district collector who promised to set up the same within a week. “Among other pending works include small modifications of the building. The main equipment has been delivered from the Kerala Medical Services Corporation Ltd (KMSCL),” the official said. Though the Institute has tied up with the Government Medical College to use its equipment on a temporary basis, frequent blood check-ups necessitated by the treatment can’t be done there.

“During biopsy and further treatment, blood count of patients needs to be checked after and before administering injections. Also whole blood and blood components like white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets are needed. However, the laboratory is yet to be set up,” said Dr N. K. Sanil Kumar of Justice Krishna Iyer Movement. “Also no super-specialty doctors -- cardiologist, nephrologists and gastroenterologists, are currently available with the EMC to attend the patients upon them developing heart, liver or kidney problems as part of chemotherapy. The authorities also need to act fast in appointing a full-time director to co-ordinate the functioning.” The outpatient wing of the Kochi Cancer Centre started functioning on the Kerala Piravi Day.