Media Release
Udupi, Nov 19: Division of Paediatric Hematology-Oncology OPD and ward was inaugurated at Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal on November 18 by Dr Siddhartha Laskar, deputy director Academics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. In the inaugural address, he said, “Cancer is like a tsunami. The start of the division is a great step toward managing Paediatric cancer. The community should make use of this facility."
The formal inaugural function was organized at Dr TMA Pai auditorium. Dr Poornima Baliga B, pro-vice-chancellor, MAHE, Manipal was the guest of honour and congratulated the team and remarked, "Now, people do not have to travel to Bengaluru, Mumbai or Chennai for cancer treatment. A full-fledged cancer department with various advanced facilities is now available in Manipal."
Dr Vinod Bhat, vice-chancellor, MAHE Manipal said, “The demand for different sub-specialties in a single specialty is the need of the hour. The start of this new division is like a dream come true."
In his presidential address Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor, MAHE, Manipal said, “Cancer does not mean death sentence for patients now. Medical science is now much more advanced when compared to earlier decades. In the present era, advanced medication is available for cancer treatment. If the cancer is detected at an early stage it is possible to cure. This is best possible in the co-ordination of nurses and paramedics with doctors."
Dr P L N G Rao, pro-vice-chancellor, Quality Assurance, MAHE Manipal, Dr Sharath Kumar Rao, Dean KMC, Manipal, C G Muthana, COO, Kasturba Hospital, Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital Manipal, Dr Vasudeva Bhat, in-charge, division of Paediatric Hematology-Oncology, Dr Srikiran Hebbar, professor and head, department of Paediatrics and Dr Navin Salins professor and head, department of Palliative Medicine were present.
Dr Sharath Kumar, dean KMC Manipal welcomed the gathering and Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital Manipal proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Vasudeva Bhat introduced the chief guest. Dr Archana M V was the master of ceremony.