Breast cancer accounts for 23% of new GMC oncology cases: Minister

NT Reporter

Panaji

Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said that among the 1,550 new cancer patients registered at the Department of Medical Oncology at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC), Bambolim, breast cancer cases were the highest at 23 per cent.

“At GMC, the Department of Medical Oncology registered 1,550 new cancer patients last year, with breast cancer (23 per cent) being the most common, followed by gastrointestinal (18 per cent), genitourinary (15 per cent), and head and neck cancers (15 per cent),” Rane said in a post on social media.

He said that alongside advanced treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and palliative care, the focus remains on holistic support through counselling, nutrition, rehabilitation, emergency tele-counselling and weekly support groups, with care tailored to each patient and family. Rane said that United by Unique reminds us that while cancer affects many, every patient’s journey is different. In Goa, this belief guides the approach to cancer care, putting people, not just the disease, at the heart of healthcare.

“While cancer incidence is rising, early detection saves lives. Awareness, timely screening and prevention through healthy lifestyles — avoiding tobacco and alcohol, staying active, eating home-cooked meals and practising yoga and meditation — are key to reducing the burden of cancer. This World Cancer Day, Goa stands united in its commitment to accessible, compassionate and people-centric cancer care, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity, hope and purpose,” he said.