Kidwai marks 50 yrs: Director shares commitment to provide cancer treatment for the less privileged

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: The Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Bengaluru proudly celebrates 50 years of dedicated service to cancer patients.

As an autonomous state government regional cancer centre, the institute has been providing tertiary cancer care to patients from Karnataka, neighbouring states and those from across the country.

The institute has played a pivotal role in advancing cancer treatment and care while striving to make it accessible to all, especially the underprivileged. Director of the institute Dr V Lokesh shared his joy with News Trail, and said that in the upcoming months, the institute will embark on Golden Jubilee Celebrations, highlighting the latest cancer care services introduced at the facility.

“The institute will celebrate its golden jubilee year by including scientific deliberations, meetings with experts from the field, and initiatives to promote cancer prevention education among the public. The institute's expert teams are planning various activities and programs, ensuring comprehensive support for patients and volunteers,” he said.

Sharing the story about how the institute has grown, the director said, “Over the past 50 years, Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology has witnessed remarkable growth, expanding from a 50-bed inpatient hospital in 1973 to its current capacity of 746 beds,” and added that the institute will continuously strive to provide advanced treatment facilities for cancer patients, especially those who cannot afford private healthcare.

The institute's state-ofthe-art facilities include the largest Radiation Oncology & Brachytherapy facility in the country, with seven linear accelerators and three brachytherapy units.

It has established peripheral cancer centres in various locations, with more centres planned to alleviate the patient load in Bengaluru and provide accessible care to patients closer to their residences.

Since its inauguration in 1973, Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology has evolved into a renowned cancer care institution. As Kidwai celebrates 50 years of compassionate service, it remains committed to its mission of providing cancer care, advancing research and education, and making a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families.