Every state in the country will have an upgraded regional cancer centre for early detection and prevention of the disease. As most cancer cases can be prevented, cancer centres in the country will be upgraded and equipped with more facilities for early detection.

According to informed sources, the Central Government is to ensure that every state in the country has an upgraded regional cancer centre including in North-East region. There will be more centre of excellence in cancer, one coming up in Kolkata and another in Allahabad. Telemedicine, community participation and other initiatives are being strengthened for preventing the spread of cancer.

ICMR is to enhance its research activities in a big way including stem cell reserarch, genomics and nanotechnology etc. for checking cancer. ICMR has joined hands with Merck for a vaccine trial currently underway in South Africa and a cost- effective vaccine could emerge sooner from the trial.

It is realised that cancer-care should be part of the National Health Programme. About one third of cancers can be treated and cured, if detected early.