Cancer cases in Sikkim are rising at a concerning pace, prompting strong action from the state government. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, the Health and Family Welfare Department and the Department of Science and Technology have been working together to address the issue. A detailed analysis of decade-long cancer data revealed distinct trends in cancer types, ethnicity, and geographic patterns. This data was shared with the Department of Health Research and Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, along with a request for targeted interventions.
In response, an expert consultation on cancer prevention and control in Sikkim was held on July 28 at India International Centre, New Delhi, chaired by Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research. Experts from ICMR, AIIMS, Tata Memorial Hospital, and other institutions participated. The consultation identified three priority areas—localized research, statewide awareness campaigns, and population-based screenings—aiming to make Sikkim a model state for cancer prevention and early detection through a centre-state funded strategy.