New Delhi, Jan 29 (IANS) 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.
