Devasish Sharma Advocates for Cancer to be Declared a Notifiable Disease

Advocacy for Cancer Awareness

Guwahati, Oct 14: Devasish Sharma, the newly elected MP from Nagaon, announced his intention to advocate for cancer to be classified as a notifiable disease.

In an interview, Sharma, who has dedicated decades to cancer care and currently serves as the president of Cancer Care India, explained that such a classification would legally require healthcare providers to report all cancer cases to public health authorities.

This initiative aims to facilitate early detection of cancer and enhance public awareness, according to Sharma.

He highlighted the significance of the Ayushman card, which he described as transformative for economically disadvantaged individuals seeking cancer treatment. The card allows eligible patients to access treatment worth up to Rs five lakh annually, and Sharma is keen to explore the inclusion of pre-treatment tests like PET scans under this scheme.

Sharma noted that previously, many low-income patients struggled to afford cancer treatment, but the Ayushman card has made it more accessible.

As an MP, he expressed his commitment to finding ways to support the middle class, who often lack financial assistance in their fight against cancer.

Drawing from his extensive experience in cancer care, Sharma pointed out that the middle class, which constitutes 31 to 40 percent of the Indian population, frequently encounters significant challenges due to the absence of government aid.

“Providing some financial support to the middle class would be immensely beneficial,” he remarked.

Following his electoral victory, Sharma is returning to the communities he campaigned in to express his gratitude to voters for their support.