Morung Express News
Dimapur | August 27
After decades of waiting, Nagaland, which is amongst the highest cancer prevalent states in the country, finally inaugurated a multi-specialty hospital specializing in cancer treatment.
Eden Medical Centre (EMC), a 75-bedded hospital specializing in cancer treatment, was formally inaugurated here on Saturday by Nagaland State Minister for Health & Family Welfare (H&FW), P Longon. The EMC plans to upgrade itself to a 100-bedded hospital, which includes suites, cabins, and male and female wards.
The Minister, in his address, said that Nagaland State has achieved a lot in healthcare system but more needs to be done. “Our State being located away from mainland India, we are facing a lot of problems while tackling health issues as demanded by our people.” Longon said earlier that in order to avail health care facilities, patients from Nagaland had to go far off places and cities thereby incurring heavy expenses both from the individual and State government side.
The Minister was especially referring to the huge number of cancer patients from Nagaland who had to go outside the State for treatment.
“But today, we are proud to have this Eden Medical Centre providing quality cancer care services to our patients at our doorstep by our own doctors. I am greatly encouraged to see this type of hospital coming up in our home city where the state-of-the-art medical treatment is being provided to the patients at an affordable limit,” Longon said.
He expressed optimism that the creative innovation of the proprietor and team of doctors at Eden hospital would definitely change the outlook of the patients while struggling from their sickness. “I strongly believe that this hospital will bring changes in the life of cancer patients keeping in mind the value of human lives,” he said.
60% of cancer cases preventable
Chief of Dr. BR Ambedkar Institute-Rotary Cancer Hospital, AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr. (Prof) GK Rath, who also graced the inaugural ceremony, said of the various diseases, cancer is among the three top causes of death in India. However unlike other diseases like diabetes or blood pressure, cancer is curable, more so when detected at an early stage, he said.
Dr. Rath said 60% of cancer cases are preventable and 80% curable if detected early.
On the occasion, the H&FW Minister released the Hospital magazine and Dr. Rath launched the hospital website.
Proprietor and the brain behind EMC, Yashitsungba Ao, presented mementos to guests.
Earlier, Dr. Lima Imchen delivered the welcome address.
Departments in the hospital
Radiation oncology, radiology and imaging, casualty, OPD &IPD, General Medicine, Surgery, Obstretics & Gynaecology, Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Dentistry (Oral and Maxillofacial surgery), Pathology and Orthopedics. The EMC has resident doctors, consultants and visiting consultants.
