Alarming increase in cancer cases in textile hub

[amg]

Known the world over for its textile production and processing, Erode district (India) is witnessing an alarming number of cancer cases due to drinking water contamination from the deadly chemical discharge by various factory units into Kalaingarayan canal.

"Erode district is one of the worst hit cancer districts in Tamil Nadu and as on date, within just 18 months of starting the IICG cancer hospital, 1,320 cancer cases were examined in Erode alone," says Dr P Suthahar, consultant radiologist at the hospital.

He said 35 to 40 per cent of those examined had liver and bladder cancer, a clear indication that it was due to consumption of water contaminated with dyes and chemicals.

The hospital is now conducting regular camps all over the district to make people aware on the need to go for proper early diagnosis and treatment.

"everyday, a new case comes to the hospital," he told PTI.