Early, exact, easy detection key to Cancer prevention, cure: Dr Jitendra

GURUGRAM: “Early, exact and easy detection is the key to prevention and cure of Cancer” was the Mantra coined by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh while inaugurating one of the first of its kind, latest diagnostic facility, 128-slice Digital PET-CT scanner with AI (Artificial Intelligence) driven integrated investigative set up at Mahajan Imaging & Labs, Gurugram, marking a major step forward in early cancer detection and screening.

Dr Jitendra Singh-a noted senior medical professional himself-emphasised the critical role of early and accurate diagnosis in transforming India’s cancer care landscape. “This advancement is more than just a technological leap-it represents how innovation can be harnessed with empathy to ensure better health outcomes for all,” he said.

The facility, featuring AI (Artificial Intelligence) powered technology and advanced pathology labs, is aimed at improving accessibility to precision oncology services in the region.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s repeated emphasis on fitness, weight control, Yoga and wellness, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the government’s efforts in this area and added that 200 Day Care Cancer Centres are being set up in district hospitals this year. Alongside full customs duty exemption on 36 life-saving medicines used in treating cancer and other chronic diseases, he added.

The 128-slice Digital PET-CT scanner-Omni Legend by GE HealthCare-offers a spatial resolution of 1.4 mm, 60% lower radiation exposure, and AI-enhanced lesion detection. Such innovations are key to detecting cancer at earlier stages, when treatment is more effective, survival rates significantly improve and many of the cases absolutely curable.

Dr Jitendra Singh also made a strong pitch for mass cancer screening, urging private healthcare providers to partner with the government in expanding affordable diagnostic solutions. “More than 70% of cancer cases in India are detected at late stages. We need a preventive, community-based approach that leverages both public and private innovation. I appeal to the healthcare fraternity to come together in this national mission for a cancer-free India,” he said.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, drawing on his unique perspective as both a medical professional and a policymaker, emphasized the human dimension behind the technology. “This is not just about machines and diagnostics; it’s about families who wait with hope, about lives that can be changed with timely intervention,” he said. Reflecting on the emotional weight of a cancer diagnosis, he added, “I have seen the anxiety on the faces of patients and their families. The sooner we detect, the better we treat.

Technology like this brings healing not just through medicine, but through reassurance and timely action.” Stressing the moral imperative of equitable access, the Minister said, “It is not acceptable that someone’s chances of survival should depend on their pin code.” He urged the medical community and the private sector to view innovations not merely as advancements, but as responsibilities. “We are at a point in India’s medical journey where innovation must go hand in hand with inclusion,” he said, calling for a national movement towards cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection.

The Gurugram facility, according to Mahajan Imaging’s Founder and Chairman Dr. Harsh Mahajan, is designed to deliver holistic cancer diagnostics-from routine blood tests to complex biopsies and next-gen imaging-all under one roof. “We’re empowering clinicians with AI-powered precision tools that enable early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes,” he said.

Cancer remains a growing health burden in India, with ICMR estimating 14.9 lakh new cases in 2023. The mortality-to-incidence ratio-nearly 64%-is among the highest globally, largely due to delayed diagnosis. By 2025, new cancer cases are projected to rise to 1.57 million.

With tools like the 128-slice scanner-equipped with digital BGO detectors, advanced reconstruction algorithms, and integrated AI-driven pathology-centres like Mahajan Imaging are setting new benchmarks in patient-centric care. Especially for children and the elderly, the reduced scan time and radiation exposure are significant advantages.

Dr Jitendra Singh concluded by saying that integrated diagnostics, community awareness, and collaborative innovation are the cornerstones of India’s fight against cancer. “If government and private sector work together, we could aim at not just treating cancer better, but also preventing it before it strikes.”