Tue Nov 05 14:59:31 UTC 2024: ## Palliative Care Gap: Only 4% of Indians Get Essential Cancer Relief, Study Finds
**TIRUPATI, INDIA – November 5, 2024** – A concerning lack of access to palliative care in India is highlighting a critical healthcare gap, according to a study conducted by the Sri Venkateswara Institute of Cancer Care and Advanced Research (SVICCAR). The study revealed that while an estimated 70 to 140 out of every one lakh cancer patients require palliative care, less than 4% of Indians receive this essential service.
This stark statistic was presented at an educational program held at SVICCAR on Monday, marking World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2024. The event aimed to raise awareness about the vital role of palliative care in cancer management.
Dr. Mallika Tiruvadanan, a palliative medicine specialist, called for the inclusion of palliative care education in MBBS curriculums, emphasizing the importance of addressing the physical and emotional distress experienced by cancer and chronic disease patients.
Dr. Narendra Hulikal, head of Surgical Oncology at SVIMS, highlighted the specialized treatment needs of advanced cancer patients, often requiring surgical intervention in addition to medication.
Dr. V. Surendran from Adyar Cancer Institute stressed the fundamental aim of palliative care: “Adding life to days rather than days to life.”
Dr. Prasanth, SVICCAR Medical Director, underscored the collaborative nature of palliative care, emphasizing the importance of a patient-centered approach involving doctors, nurses, psychologists, NGOs, and caregivers.
Dr. Rajendra A. Badwe, Chief Executive of the Tata Cancer Care Foundation, highlighted the potential impact of effective palliative care strategies. He stated that integrating these strategies into the treatment model could reduce patient anxiety by 40%.
A similar awareness event was held in Ranchi by the Tata Cancer Care Foundation.
First Piper 