List of Cancer Institutes in Mumbai

India is experiencing a rise in cancer cases due to various factors like lifestyle changes, environmental issues, and an aging population. Quality care is crucial to address this increasing burden effectively. Cancer centres provide comprehensive care, integrating advanced diagnostic, therapeutic, and research facilities.

Importance of quality cancer care

• Improved survival rates: Access to advanced treatments, early detection, and timely interventions in quality cancer care result in higher survival rates and improved patient outcomes.
• Reduced economic burden: Effective cancer care improves patient’s health and reduces the financial strain on families and the healthcare system. Early detection and appropriate treatment can lead to a decrease in long-term healthcare costs.
• Better quality of life: Cancer treatments can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Quality care focuses on curing the disease, managing symptoms, providing palliative care, and offering psychological support to patients and their families.
• Research and innovation: High-quality cancer care creates an environment that encourages research and innovation. It promotes collaborations, clinical trials, and the development of new therapies, potentially benefiting patients in India and worldwide.

In India, numerous well-known cancer centres are operated by the government, charitable organizations, and trusts. Some of the notable centres include:

Government-Run Cancer Centres

• Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), Mumbai
• All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
• Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, Bangalore
• Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), Kolkata

Charitable and Trust-Run Cancer Centres

• Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai
• Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi
• Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
• Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute (GCRI), Ahmedabad

What services do cancer centres provide?

Cancer centres offer various services, including cancer screening and diagnosis, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and supportive care. They also provide access to clinical trials and research studies.

• Diagnostic services:  Imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans, PET scans, ultrasound), biopsy and pathological examinations, genetic and molecular testing
• Treatment Services: Surgery (minimally invasive, robotic, and traditional), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy; hormonal therapy; bone marrow and stem cell transplantation
• Supportive and palliative care:  Pain management, nutritional counselling, psychological support and counselling, palliative care for advanced cancer patients
• Rehabilitation Services: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and swallowing therapy
• Preventive services: Cancer screening (mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears), vaccination programs (e.g., HPV vaccine), public education and awareness programs
• Patient and family support services: Support groups and counselling, financial counselling and assistance programs, patient navigation services to help coordinate care

What do I need to keep in mind when visiting a cancer centre first time?

The criteria for choosing cancer care involve various essential factors:

Specialization and expertise: Healthcare institutions with a proven track record of expertise in oncology, staffed by qualified and experienced medical professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and specialized cancer care nurses.

Accreditations and certifications: Seek out hospitals and cancer care centres that are accredited by respected organizations such as NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers) or JCI (Joint Commission International). These accreditations ensure that the facility meets high-quality standards.

Advanced technology and treatment options: Ensure the centre has modern medical equipment and advanced treatment options, like radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. It should also have good diagnostic facilities like MRI, CT, and PET scans.

Quality and comprehensiveness of care: Look for a range of services, such as early detection/screening programs, various treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, as well as palliative care. Additionally, research the centre’s patient outcomes and survival rates, specifically for the type of cancer being treated.

Communication and patient-centric approach:  Choose a centre where the medical staff communicates clearly and effectively, explaining diagnoses, treatment options, and care plans. A patient-centered approach, where the patient’s preferences and needs are prioritized, involves personalized care plans, psychological support, counselling, and patient education.

Post-treatment support: Check that the centre offers survivorship programs, long-term follow-up care, and support groups for patients and their families after completing primary cancer treatment.

Accessibility and affordability: Consider the centre’s location and ease of access, especially if frequent visits are required. Proximity to home can be important for convenience and reducing travel stress.

Research and clinical trials: Check if the centre is involved in cancer research, taking part in clinical trials, and contributing to the advancements in cancer treatment methods and technologies.

These measures demonstrate the effectiveness and success of the services provided, ensuring that cancer patients receive comprehensive and high-quality care.

References

1. Choosing a cancer treatment Center. Available from: https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/managing-your-care/choosing-cancer-treatment-center. Accessed on 25^th May 2024.
2. Gospodarowicz M, Trypuc J, D’Cruz A, et al. Cancer Services and the Comprehensive Cancer Center. In: Gelband H, Jha P, Sankaranarayanan R, et al., editors. Cancer: Disease Control Priorities, Third Edition (Volume 3). Washington (DC): The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank; 2015 Nov 1. Chapter 11. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK343637/
3. Your guide to cancer care excellence. Available from: https://www.socialforaction.com/blog/best-cancer-hospitals-in-india/. Accessed on 25^th May 2024