MGMGH, IMA Tiruchi launch nutrition support program for cancer patients

The initiative was launched on Tuesday to support 20 cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy every month. The programme was inaugurated at the hospital by S. Kumaravel, Dean of KAPV Government Medical College; Ganapathi Sundar, President of IMA Trichy; and senior officials.

Speaking to The Hindu, Arun Seshachalam, secretary, IMA Tiruchi and Tiruchi Oncology Society, said, “A dietary requirement of at least 60-80 grams of protein is needed for those undergoing chemotherapy treatment. We had noticed that while cancer patients can avail chemotherapy free of charge at the government hospital, they may not be able to buy the protein-rich food. Our initiative is meant for 20 cancer patients under chemotherapy at MGMGH who are falling behind on their dietary needs. The patients will be shortlisted in concurrence with the GH authorities every month. At present, we have enough IMA members to sponsor the nutrition hampers for the entire year”.

Each nutrition pack costs ₹1,200 and includes items such as lentils and sunflower oil.

Medical Superintendent of MGMGH, E Arun Raj, said that the problem of sudden weight loss and loss of appetite is often seen in TB and cancer patients. These nutritional packs contain high-calorie and protein items, which can be prepared and given to cancer patients.

He further stated that priority would be given to patients from the economically weaker sections of society.

MGMGH inaugurated its cancer Outpatient Department (OPD) in January of this year; it will operate with a dedicated day-care chemotherapy ward and a palliative care ward. The OPD receives approximately 300 patients each month, including those referred from Perambalur, Ariyalur, and nearby towns.