Addressing the Rising Cancer Burden in Tirunelveli and Beyond
As we observe World Cancer Day under the theme “United by Unique,” it is crucial to understand the current landscape of cancer incidence in India, Tamil Nadu, and Tirunelveli. This theme highlights the importance of personalized, compassionate care, ensuring that every individual’s journey shapes our collective fight against cancer.

Rising Cancer Incidence: A Call for Action

Cancer in India
In 2022, India recorded an estimated 1,461,427 new cancer cases, with a crude incidence rate of 100.4 per 100,000 individuals. Projections indicate a 27.7% increase in cancer cases from 2015 to 2025, underscoring the urgent need for early detection and improved access to treatment.

Cancer in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu has witnessed a steady increase in cancer cases over the past decade. The number of new cases rose from 53,022 in 2012 to 77,138 in 2018, with a projected 88,750 cases in 2022. This upward trend highlights the growing burden on healthcare systems and the need for enhanced screening and treatment facilities.

Nellai Cancer Care Center: A Decade of Impact
Since its inception in 2011, Nellai Cancer Care Center has been dedicated to cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and palliative care in and around Tirunelveli. The center’s primary goal is to reduce preventable cancers, enhance survival rates, and provide accessible, state-of-the-art treatment, especially in remote areas.

Over the years, the center has conducted:

• 2,547 screening camps, reaching 71,208 individuals
• 3135 awareness camps, sensitizing 2.5 lakh people across villages

With a team of highly qualified oncologists, gynecologists, medical officers, and supportive staff trained at prestigious institutions like Adyar Cancer Institute, the center ensures quality care in a compassionate and supportive environment.

Break the Silence, Embrace the Fight
However, despite these efforts, many individuals hesitate to seek further diagnosis or treatment due to stigma, lack of awareness, and misconceptions such as “I feel fine, so why should I get screened?”

Additionally, nearly 50% of cancer patients from Tirunelveli travel outside the district for treatment, seeking better facilities. The district lacks a charity-based cancer hospital apart from government institutions, leading to:

• Long waiting times in neighboring districts
• Language barriers
• Increased out-of-pocket expenses for patients and their families
• Away from home for a long time

Bridging the Gap: A Comprehensive Cancer Hospital in Tirunelveli
To address these challenges, Nellai Cancer Care Center is transitioning into a comprehensive cancer hospital, equipped with advanced treatment facilities, in a phased manner.

The new facility is being established in Sengulam, 20 minutes from Tirunelveli along the National Highway, ensuring accessibility for villages across Tirunelveli and neighboring districts like Kanniyakumari, Tenkasi, and Tuticorin.

The hospital’s first phase is set to be inaugurated on October 2, 2025, marking a significant step toward improving cancer care accessibility for the region.

United by Unique: A Commitment to People-Centered Cancer Care
As we mark World Cancer Day, the “United by Unique” theme reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a personal story—of resilience, healing, and hope. By focusing on people-centered cancer care, Nellai Cancer Care Center remains committed to early detection, advanced treatment, and compassionate support for every patient.

Through continued awareness, screening, and improved healthcare infrastructure, we can work together to create a future where every individual receives the care they need, when they need it, close to home.

Nellai Cancer Hospital

For further information, please contact: Dr. E. Vidhubala, 94442 74700

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