From The Economic Times · PTI · · 1m 20s
India Needs Five-Year Policy for Affordable Precision Cancer Care
Dr Bhawna Sirohi calls for a five-year policy to make genomic testing and targeted cancer therapies accessible to lower-income patients in India.
In brief
Dr Bhawna Sirohi calls for a five-year policy to make genomic testing and targeted cancer therapies accessible to lower-income patients in India. India needs a five-year policy agenda to make precision cancer care affordable for lower-income patients through integrated genomic testing and targeted therapies…
Dr Bhawna Sirohi
Oncologist Dr Bhawna Sirohi calls for a five-year policy agenda to make genomic testing and precision cancer therapies accessible to lower-income patients in India.
Precision Oncology Challenges
Precision oncology can transform cancer treatment but faces high costs, limited genomic testing access, and expensive drugs for lower-income patients.
Lancet Commission Role
Dr Sirohi is the only Indian cancer specialist on the new Lancet Oncology Commission focused on precision cancer care in low-income countries.
Lung Cancer Example
Lung cancer patients with specific EGFR mutations can use targeted tablets for years instead of chemotherapy, improving outcomes.
Ayushman Bharat Limitations
Ayushman Bharat covers precision cancer treatments but newer drugs remain costly and inaccessible for most patients.
DIAMOnDS Project
The DIAMOnDS project aims to strengthen molecular oncology diagnostics but focuses on lung and breast cancers with limited regional lab access.
Cervical Cancer Program
Dr Sirohi launched a cervical cancer elimination program with Chhattisgarh state government for HPV vaccination and screening to meet WHO 2030 goals.
At a glance
India needs a five-year policy agenda to make precision cancer care affordable for lower-income patients through integrated genomic testing and targeted therapies.
