Punjab's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana Provides Cashless Lung Cancer Treatment to 708 Patients

Punjab's Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY) has provided cashless treatment worth Rs 3.43 crore to 708 lung cancer patients, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said on Saturday, marking World Lung Cancer Day. The initiative aims to improve access to life-saving treatment while promoting early detection and preventive healthcare.

According to the State Health Agency, 413 men received treatment worth Rs 1.89 crore, while 295 women availed treatment amounting to Rs 1.53 crore under the scheme.

Highlighting the importance of timely diagnosis, Dr Singh said lung cancer remains one of the world's deadliest cancers, but early screening and prompt medical intervention can significantly improve survival rates. He urged people experiencing symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty breathing to seek medical attention without delay.

The minister also underscored Punjab's progress in tobacco control, stating that the state has emerged as the lowest tobacco-consuming state in India, according to NFHS-6. He attributed the achievement to sustained awareness campaigns, effective enforcement measures, and active public participation, while encouraging citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce the risk of lung cancer.

Age-wise data showed that the 61-75 years category accounted for the highest number of beneficiaries, with 286 patients receiving treatment worth Rs 1.34 crore, followed by the 46-60 years group with 247 patients benefiting from Rs 1.24 crore. The scheme also covered younger patients, including those aged 31-45 years, 19-30 years, and 13-18 years, reflecting the disease's impact across age groups.

Among districts, Bathinda recorded the highest number of beneficiaries with 179 patients, followed by Sangrur (163) and Faridkot (149). Other beneficiaries came from Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, SAS Nagar, Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Pathankot.

Dr Singh said the Punjab government will continue to expand cancer screening, strengthen healthcare access, and widen the reach of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, while also promoting holistic recovery through the "CM Di Yogshala" initiative.