Families and NGOs Shoulder Cancer Care Overflow as Hospitals Struggle
The increasing demand for cancer care in India is becoming a pressing issue, especially around the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. As hospitals face overwhelming patient overflow, families and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are stepping in to support cancer care needs.
Overflowing Hospitals and Patient Challenges
Patients often arrive at AIIMS with thick files of medical reports, blankets, and essential supplies. By nightfall, the pavement is filled with families waiting for appointments. Many come from distant states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana, unable to wait months for online consultations.
“Appointment counters open at 8 am, but there is no guarantee,” shares Rakesh Kumar, a caregiver waiting outside the hospital. This situation has become routine for many, as families navigate the uncertainty of treatment availability and the conditions outside hospitals.
India’s Growing Cancer Burden
India’s cancer burden has escalated significantly over the past decade. Cancer cases rose from 1.39 million in 2015 to 1.53 million in 2024, a growth of more than 10%. In contrast, cancer-related deaths increased from 680,000 to 870,000 during the same timeframe, marking an alarming rise of nearly 29%.
The mortality-to-incidence ratio has also worsened, climbing from 49% to 57%. This trend highlights critical issues in the healthcare system, including late diagnoses and limited access to treatment, placing immense stress on families caring for cancer patients.
The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations
NGOs like CanSupport are vital in bridging the gaps faced by patients and caregivers. They provide essential services, including counselling, palliative care, and nutritional support for families navigating the challenges of cancer care.
“Hospitals are primarily designed for active treatment, but once aggressive care is no longer warranted, NGOs can step in to deliver necessary support,” explains Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, an oncologist. CanSupport offers home-based palliative care, helping families manage care day-to-day.
Community Support and Caregiver Burnout
Many caregivers experience extreme fatigue, a phenomenon known as caregiver burnout. Ranjana Sethi, a former vice principal turned volunteer, emphasizes the importance of emotional support alongside medical care.
“Often, caregivers are overwhelmed,” she states. Volunteers reach out regularly to check on families and provide emotional support, which can be just as critical as medical attention.
Empowering Patients and Families
According to Dr. Ambika Rajvanshi, CEO of CanSupport, the organization seeks to empower patients and caregivers to lead meaningful lives despite the challenges of cancer. “Quality of life means addressing the real felt needs of patients,” she states.
Services extend beyond medical treatment to encompass emotional and social aspects of care. Volunteers play an essential role in creating a supportive community, one where patients and their families can feel valued and understood.
A Need for Comprehensive Support
The increasing number of cancer patients highlights an urgent need for comprehensive support systems in India. As families face financial and emotional strains, NGOs offer resources that are crucial for survival.
- In Delhi and nearby regions, organizations like CanSupport provide essential services.
- Volunteer networks help relieve caregiver stress and manage patient needs.
- Palliative care programs aim to maintain quality of life for patients.
The situation outside hospitals illustrates the growing necessity for community involvement in cancer care. With the support of families and NGOs, patients receive some level of comfort while navigating their health challenges.
