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New Delhi: Around 40
cancer patients from India and abroad who successfully underwent
bone marrow transplants here last year came together Sunday to
spread the message that blood cancer is curable.
The event was organised in the run-up to World Cancer Day Feb 4 by
Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) which
treated the patients in collaboration with Cancer Sahyog, the
emotional support group of Indian Cancer Society.
Bone marrow transplant (BMT) patients from India as well as
countries like Afghanistan, Nepal, Iran, Kenya and the UAE along
with their families shared their experiences and got in depth
knowledge about cancer.
"This get together was aimed at equipping the patients and their
families with right information so that they are able to face the
challenging phase in their lives successfully," said Dinesh
Bhurani, senior consultant, BMT, RGCIRC.
"The reunion also led to bonhomie between patients and they
benefitted a lot from sharing of their experiences," added Bhurani.
According to the centre, blood cancer is one of the most dreaded
cancers. However, BMT has emerged as an effective treatment.
"Post-operative period is as critical as the bone marrow
transplant itself. After a bone marrow transplant, it may take a
year or more for the immune system to recover," said Bhurani.
"The cost is a major concern in a BMT. We are providing this
facility at most economical way. The results of transplants are at
par with international standards," added Shishir Seth, consultant,
RGCIRC.
As per the official statement by RGCIRC, it was amongst the first
in the country to introduce BMT in 2001. In 2011, it became the
first institute in north India to perform more than 50 transplants
in a year.
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