A monthly scheme to support the nutritional requirements of 20 cancer patients has been launched at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) in association with the Tiruchi chapter of Indian Medical Association (IMA) and Tiruchi Oncology Society this week, with the aim of ensuring that beneficiaries have the dietary nourishment to undergo treatment.

The programme was launched on Tuesday at the hospital by K.A.P.V. Government Medical College Dean S. Kumaravel, Ganapathy Sundar, president, IMA Tiruchi and senior officials.

“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,” Arun Seshachalam, secretary, IMA Tiruchi and Tiruchi Oncology Society, told The Hindu.

Each nutrition pack, containing items such as pulses, lentils and sunflower oil, is worth ₹1,200.

MGMGH inaugurated its cancer outpatient department in January this year, to function alongside a dedicated day care chemotherapy ward and a palliative care ward. The OPD receives approximately 300 visitors per month, including referrals from Perambalur, Ariyalur and nearby towns.

“Sudden weight loss and lack of appetite are usually seen in tuberculosis and cancer patients. These nutritional packs contain high calorie and protein-rich ingredients that can be prepared and served to cancer patients,” said MGMGH Medical Superintendent E. Arun Raj. Priority would be given to patients from economically weaker sections of society, he added.

The launch of a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan facility at the hospital’s super speciality block, expected to be inaugurated soon, will help to streamline oncology services in the GH.