India’s leading cancer care hospital – HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) – Nashik has identified 8 to 10 per cent spike in patients suffering from cervical cancer in the calendar year 2023, compared to the same duration in the preceding year. Being one of the largest cancer care hospitals in North Maharashtra, HCGMCC receives and treats the highest number of cancer cases in the region.
Across India, approximately over one lakh women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year making it the third most common cancer in the country. The hospital further revealed that thyroid cancer, which is less common, too has registered an increase at its centre with approximately 3 to 5 per cent of patients diagnosed with it in the post-COVID times.
“The surge in cervical cancer cases is alarming, necessitating heightened awareness and preventive measures. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in mitigating the impact of this disease. The best way to detect cervical cancer early is to get regular screening tests.
The most common screening test is the Pap test or the HPV test which is another screening test for cervical cancer. Over the last year, we have diagnosed over 450 patients for this cancer type and have successfully treated them for the same,” says Dr Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCGMCC.
Dr Nagarkar has conducted over 65,000 surgeries and treated over 2 lakh cancer patients over two decades and holds the record for performing 1000 successful robotic surgeries over just 53 months. “Adding to the complexity, thyroid cancer, a less common but emerging concern, has also witnessed an uptick post-COVID. At HCGMCC alone, over 50 patients have been diagnosed with it so far. Across the country, this type of cancer is rare and the number of cases detected is low.
However, the unforeseen increase in thyroid cancer cases registered with us is an area of growing concern. Our team at HCGMCC is committed to addressing these challenges through advanced treatments and comprehensive care. We have state-of-the-art Robotic Surgery Centre and advanced radiation machines like Tomo-Therapy-H which aid us in early detection of symptoms to recommend the patient the best course of treatment,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.
About HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC):
Established in 2007 by Dr Raj Nagarkar, HCGMCC – Nashik is Central India's first NABH-accredited facility. With over 50 consultant oncologists, 900 staff members and a 300-bed capacity, HCGMCC is a leading institution, offering holistic cancer treatment. Specializing in surgical, radiation and medical oncology, the centre has conducted 65,000 surgeries, including 1,000 robotic-assisted procedures.
Patient-centric and multidisciplinary, HCGMCC recommends treatments to individual needs. Beyond clinical excellence, the centre’s financial aid programs underscore its commitment to accessibility and community well-being, redefining cancer care in the pursuit of a cancer-free future.