The health and family welfare minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Alo Libang, has drawn attention to the alarming increase in HIV and cancer cases in the state. Despite significant awareness campaigns about AIDS, the youth of Arunachal Pradesh continue to engage in risky behaviors such as drug consumption and unsafe sex with multiple partners, contributing to the spread of the HIV virus. Libang emphasizes the need for collective efforts from various stakeholders, including government departments, NGOs, community-based organizations, the public, and students, to raise awareness about these deadly diseases.
The Challenge of HIV and Cancer
The state of Arunachal Pradesh faces a challenging situation with regard to HIV and cancer. The prevalence of these diseases is relatively high compared to the population. One of the contributing factors is the consumption of traditional drinks and smoked meat, which can lead to the development of cancer. Arunachal Pradesh also has the highest number of cancer patients in the entire Northeast region, with the Papum Pare district recording the highest number of cases. Lifestyle changes, sedentary habits, and dietary shifts, along with a lack of exercise, contribute to the increasing incidence of these diseases. Adulterated food, including fish, chicken, and vegetables, is another factor that can cause cancer. Shifting towards organic food and adopting healthier lifestyles are essential for preventing such diseases. Additionally, diabetes and high blood pressure have become common among the citizens of Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing Medical Facilities Shortage
In response to the shortage of medical facilities in the eastern belt of Arunachal Pradesh, the government has taken several steps to improve healthcare services. Infrastructure development and upgrades are underway in Pasighat, with a new 300-bed hospital sanctioned. Similarly, a new private medical facility is being established in Namsai, and Aalo District Hospital in West Siang district is receiving new equipment. These improvements aim to reduce the need for patients to travel outside the state for treatment. The Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) in Naharlagun has emerged as a primary healthcare destination, serving patients who previously traveled to Delhi or Guwahati. Health Minister Libang highlights the need for AIIMS-like institutes in the state to provide comprehensive healthcare services. Efforts are being made to upgrade hospitals in Yingkiong to offer specialized treatments.
Addressing Manpower Shortage
Minister Libang acknowledges the scarcity of doctors and human resources in the health sector of Arunachal Pradesh. However, he expresses optimism about the situation improving in the near future. The recent graduation of a new batch of doctors from the TRIHMS medical college will help fill the present gaps. Additionally, efforts are being made to attract super specialists and surgeons to the state, as their presence is crucial for providing advanced healthcare services. The minister emphasizes the importance of improving road communication and infrastructure in remote towns to encourage doctors from other states to serve in Arunachal Pradesh. As part of his tenure, Libang is working on establishing community health centers, district hospitals, and medical facilities based on population needs, with a focus on equitable distribution of resources. By addressing the shortage of doctors in remote towns, the healthcare services provided to the people in these areas will see significant improvements.
Alo Libang, the health and family welfare minister of Arunachal Pradesh, has raised concerns about the rising cases of HIV and cancer in the state. The youth’s engagement in risky behaviors and lifestyle changes are contributing factors. To combat these diseases effectively, concerted efforts from government bodies, NGOs, community organizations, the public, and students are necessary to create awareness and promote healthy practices. Arunachal Pradesh is taking steps to address the shortage of medical facilities by establishing new hospitals, upgrading existing ones, and providing specialized treatments. Efforts are also being made to attract more doctors to the state. By prioritizing infrastructure development and improving road connectivity, the government aims to enhance healthcare services in remote towns. These initiatives aim to ensure better healthcare access and outcomes for the people of Arunachal Pradesh.