Support of public needed to combat cancer, says CM

The support and cooperation of the public are needed to fight cancer, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said.

He was speaking after inaugurating a new complex of the Cochin Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) at the Kalamassery Medical College Hospital on Monday (February 9, 2026). “Early detection of cancer will go a long way in curtailing treatment expenses, besides ensuring quality life for patients. The focus should be on conducting early cancer screenings and awareness camps,” said Mr. Vijayan.

“While we have made remarkable progress in the field of health, there are still issues that we need to address very seriously. Infectious diseases, zoonotic diseases, and lifestyle diseases continue to pose challenges,” he said. Mr. Vijayan urged people to follow a healthy lifestyle to prevent lifestyle diseases such as cancer. “While it cannot be said that all cancers are caused by lifestyle, a majority of cases fall in this category. Everyone should take responsibility for their health and be willing to make changes in lifestyle and follow good healthy habits,” he said.

Cancer Control Board

The Chief Minister said a Cancer Control Board had been formed at the government level for early diagnosis and disease prevention.

He further noted that the cancer centre became a reality because of the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB). The new building complex was constructed at a cost of ₹449 crore, which was provided by KIIFB. The building, spread over an area of ​​6.3 lakh sq ft, has 387 beds. Elaborating on the role played by KIIFB in the execution of several projects in various sectors, Mr. Vijayan said a total of ₹90,000-crore worth development projects funded by KIIFB had been taken up in various sectors.

The centre, which started operations on a small scale in November 2016, has been equipped with all the latest facilities.

Health Minister Veena George presided over the function. Speaking on the occasion, Industries Minister P. Rajeeve said what set apart the CCRC from other cancer centres was its focus on research. An amenity centre will also be built at a cost of ₹12 crore to provide accommodation to those undergoing treatment.