A New Dawn of Hope for People of J&K in Comprehensive Cancer Care at AIIMS Jammu

Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, has expressed his deep concern for the patients diagnosed with cancer who have been forced to travel outside the state for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-ups. Reflecting on his tenure at AIIMS Delhi, Prof. Gupta shared, “Many of the people from Jammu who visited me at AIIMS Delhi were seeking treatment for cancer. I have witnessed their pain firsthand—not only due to the disease itself but also because of the hardships they faced while seeking treatment far from home. From that time, their well-being has been a matter of personal concern to me.”

Today, Prof. Gupta is in a position to change this situation. “God has been kind enough to bless me with the opportunity to make a difference for the people of Jammu & Kashmir by being instrumental in providing comprehensive cancer care within the state itself,” he added.

In his mission to offer world-class cancer treatment, Prof. Gupta has ensured that the best and latest equipment will be available at AIIMS Jammu, enabling the medical team to deliver care that meets global standards. He proudly shared that AIIMS Jammu has taken its first significant step beyond outpatient services, successfully administering chemotherapy to its first patient.

During his address, the Director, Prof. (Dr.) Shakti Kumar Gupta, shared the details of a recent case treated at the Department of Radiotherapy Oncology, AIIMS Vijaypur Jammu. The department, under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Shabab Angurana, successfully launched partial oncology services, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immuno-oncology treatments. This significant milestone marks a key step toward offering state-of-the-art cancer care within the region.

Prof. Gupta praised the oncology team for their exceptional work. The team, comprising Dr. Girija Priya Sharma (Assistant Professor), Dr. Anjali Bhola (Assistant Professor), Senior Resident Dr. Suridhi Jasrotia, Junior Resident Dr. Radhakrishna, and Senior Nursing Officer Arti Sharma, treated their first patient, a relapsed case of ovary carcinoma. The patient had previously undergone two lines of chemotherapy and treatment with a PARP inhibitor. Presently, she received infusion chemotherapy with Injection Paclitaxel, a conventional chemotherapy drug, and Injection Bevacizumab, a targeted therapy drug. The treatment lasted five hours, and the patient was discharged in stable condition.

The Director emphasized that these initial services represent only the beginning of a much larger plan. Over the next two to three months, AIIMS Vijaypur Jammu will expand to offer comprehensive cancer care, including advanced external radiation treatment, brachytherapy, palliative care services, cancer pain management, and cancer surgeries. This expansion will eliminate the need for patients to travel outside the state, not only bringing financial relief but also providing psychological comfort to patients and their families by offering high-quality care close to home.

“I may not be able to change anyone’s destiny,” Prof. Gupta humbly acknowledged, “but I am fully committed to ensuring that AIIMS Jammu leaves no stone unturned. We aim to raise awareness about cancer, encourage early screening, and provide complete and compassionate care—even for those diagnosed at advanced stages. Every patient deserves dignity, hope, and the best treatment available, right here in Jammu.”

Prof. Gupta urged the people of Jammu & Kashmir to take control of their health. “Cancer is a fight we all must face together. I appeal to everyone to get themselves examined regularly, especially since certain cancers can be prevented with vaccines. Early detection saves lives, and vaccines for cancers like cervical cancer can protect our future generations.”

5 Essential Tips from the Director to Fight Cancer:

1. Regular Screenings, arly detection is crucial. Get screened, especially if you are at higher risk.
2. Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can lower cancer risks.
3. Know the Signs: Be aware of the early symptoms of cancer—don’t ignore unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, or unusual lumps.
4. Vaccination: Stay informed about vaccines, like the HPV vaccine, that can prevent certain types of cancer.
5. Stay Positive: A positive mindset and timely medical intervention can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

Prof. Gupta concluded his message with a strong appeal: “Together, we will defeat cancer and build a healthier, stronger Jammu & Kashmir.”

“Cancer se ladna hai, zindagi ko jeetna hai, apne desh ko swasth aur mazboot banana hai.” (We must fight cancer, win life, and make our nation healthier and stronger).