Cancer Control in Kerala, India

Cancer control programmes have been adopted by many countries. However inadequate assessment of needs and resources, insufficient political will, lack of proper planning, execution and evaluation are the major factors that makes the programme inefficient. Participation from the various sections of society & groups has not been optimal. The experience & achievements in this regard in Kerala are described. This State in India has a high literacy rate and health conscious population. A 10 year plan of action was formulated for the initiation of the program. The Governmental support and involvement for the control program is highlighted. The modus operandi for early detection, public education and professional reorientation are described. District Cancer Control Programme, School Children's involvement, District Cancer Control Society and the role of Regional Cancer Centre are highlighted. Anti tobacco education in schools, propagation of self examination methods, extension of cancer detection and treatment facilities are the major activities undertaken in Kerala. For meeting the economic needs while a patient is diagnosed as having cancer, a cancer insurance scheme launched is described. The lessons learnt while implementing the program are described.