Sirsa’s silent emergency: A rising cancer crisis without treatment
Sirsa district in the state is facing rise in cancer cases, similar to the alarming situation in Punjab’s Malwa region, particularly in Bathinda and Mansa districts. Despite the increasing number of patients, Sirsa still lacks proper cancer testing and treatment facilities. Experts believe the causes include pollution, excessive use of pesticides, and contaminated water. Although a cancer hospital has been promised for the area, its construction may still take several years.
What is happening in Sirsa district regarding cancer cases?
Cancer cases in Sirsa are rising steadily. According to reports, thousands of people in the district may already be suffering from cancer. However, there is no proper hospital in Sirsa, either private or government-run, where patients can be diagnosed or treated for the disease. As a result, the patients are being forced to travel hundreds of kilometers to cities like Rohtak, Bikaner, Chandigarh, or Delhi just to get the necessary medical help. This is especially hard for poor families, who cannot afford the long and repeated journeys.
What concerns have been raised about the cancer situation in Sirsa?
Concerns have been raised about rising cancer cases in Sirsa. Around 3 lakh people were screened under a health programme and many showed signs of cancer. It is estimated that over 5,000 cancer patients live in the district. Pollution from chemical fertilisers, pesticides, and industrial waste in the Ghaggar river is believed to have contaminated soil, water and even mothers’ milk in nearby villages.
What is the government doing to support cancer patients in Sirsa?
The government support is very limited at the moment. The patients and one family member are given free travel in Haryana Roadways buses so they can reach hospitals in other cities for treatment. Dr Vipul Gupta, Deputy Civil Surgeon (Non communicable Disease Programme), Sirsa said nearlt 1,000 such travel passes had been issued so far. In addition, the cancer patients in advanced stages, like stage 3 or 4, receive Rs 3,000 per month as financial assistance. There is also a small two-bed day care centre at the Sirsa Civil Hospital where patients can get their prescribed medicines. However, full treatment is still not available in the district, and this basic support is not enough to meet the growing demand.
What do health experts say about the causes and possible solutions?
Health experts believe that the main causes behind the rise in cancer cases are environmental and lifestyle related. The use of heavy pesticides and fertilisers in farming, consumption of contaminated vegetables, grains, water and increased fast-food intake, are all believed to be contributing to the spread of cancer. Dr MK Bhadu, Chief Medical Officer at Sirsa Civil Hospital, said early detection is key to fighting cancer. He advised people to get themselves tested if they feel any unusual lumps or symptoms in their bodies. Experts agree that the government must urgently start cancer screening and awareness campaigns across the district.
Are pesticides and fertilisers responsible for increasing cancer cases, and what precautions should the farmers take?
Dr Rajbir Garg, Director of Research at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCS HAU), Hisar, addressed the growing concern about cancer being linked to the excessive use of fertilisers and pesticides. He clarified that scientifically recommended pesticides, when used in the recommended quantity, have not shown any direct link to cancer. However, he warned that the real risk arises when the farmers, driven by convenience, personal choice or dealer influence, purchase and use non-recommended or unapproved pesticides and fertilisers. These products may not meet safety standards and could pose health hazards, including the risk of cancer. Dr Garg emphasised that approved fertilisers and pesticides undergo rigorous scientific testing and evaluation. These tests assess their impact on soil, grains and by-products, and if even a slight cancer-causing effect is observed, the product is immediately disqualified from use. He further advised that the farmers need to be more aware and cautious. If a dealer suggests a product, the farmers should not rely on the dealer’s advice alone, but should verify the product with qualified agricultural experts before using it in their fields. This step is crucial to ensure both crop safety and human health.
Are there any plans to improve cancer care in Sirsa in the future?
Yes, the Chief Minister had earlier announced plans to build a cancer care centre along with the new Baba Sarasainath Medical College in Sirsa. However, the project may take years to become operational. MP Kumari Selja said the district could not afford to wait that long. She urged the government to begin cancer services immediately using temporary facilities or partnerships with nearby hospitals. She also pointed out that this was not just a problem for Sirsa, but for other nearby districts like Fatehabad as well.
Haryana Tribune