IMA Tiruchi and Tiruchi Oncology Society Partner with MGMGH to Provide Monthly Nutrition Kits to Economically Weaker Cancer Patients
In a significant step towards improving cancer care and patient well-being, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) in Tiruchi has launched a monthly nutrition support programme for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The initiative has been introduced in collaboration with the Tiruchi chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Tiruchi Oncology Society.
The programme was officially inaugurated on Tuesday by S. Kumaravel, Dean of KAPV Government Medical College, along with Ganapathi Sundar, President of IMA Tiruchi, and other senior officials. Under the initiative, 20 cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at MGMGH will be provided with nutrition kits every month to help meet their dietary requirements during treatment.
According to Dr. Arun Seshachalam, Secretary of IMA Tiruchi and the Tiruchi Oncology Society, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy require at least 60-80 grams of protein daily. While chemotherapy services are available free of cost at the government hospital, many patients from economically weaker backgrounds struggle to afford protein-rich foods necessary for recovery and maintaining strength.
To address this challenge, the organisations have committed to sponsoring nutrition hampers for selected patients. Each nutrition kit, valued at ₹1,200, contains protein-rich and high-calorie food items, including lentils and sunflower oil. Eligible beneficiaries will be shortlisted every month in consultation with hospital authorities.
Dr. Arun Seshachalam stated that sufficient support has already been secured from IMA members to fund the programme for the entire year, ensuring uninterrupted nutritional assistance to deserving patients.
Medical Superintendent of MGMGH, Dr. E. Arun Raj, highlighted that sudden weight loss and loss of appetite are common among cancer and tuberculosis patients. The specially designed nutrition kits aim to provide essential calories and proteins that can be easily prepared and consumed, helping patients maintain their nutritional status during treatment.
He further emphasized that priority under the scheme would be given to patients belonging to economically weaker sections of society.
MGMGH has been strengthening its oncology services in recent months. The hospital inaugurated its dedicated Cancer Outpatient Department (OPD) in January this year, featuring a day-care chemotherapy ward and a palliative care ward. The cancer OPD currently caters to nearly 300 patients every month, including referrals from Perambalur, Ariyalur, and surrounding districts.
Healthcare experts believe that nutritional support plays a crucial role in improving treatment outcomes, reducing complications, and enhancing the quality of life of cancer patients. The newly launched programme is expected to provide much-needed relief to vulnerable patients while reinforcing the importance of comprehensive cancer care in government healthcare institutions.
