The establishment of a Genetic Counseling Clinic for Hereditary Cancer at Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute (SGCC&RI), Thakurpukur, Kolkata, is a significant step in improving cancer care in Eastern India. The clinic’s goal is to offer people at risk of hereditary cancers cutting-edge genetic counseling services that are affordable and effective, guaranteeing early detection, prevention, and individualized treatment plans.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by  Dr. Rajiv Sarin, HOD, Radiation Oncology, TMH and ACTREC & In-charge, Cancer Genetic Clinic, TMH and ACTREC, Mumbai, along with Dr. Arnab Gupta, Medical Director, SGCC&RI, Dr. Rahul Roy Choudhury, Consultant, Cancer Genetic Clinic, Dr. Samir Bhattacharya, In charge Cancer Genetics Clinic, Anjan Gupta, Honorary Secretary, SGCC&RI, and Dr. Gautam Bhattacharjee, Assistant Secretary, SGCC&RI.

Dr. Rajiv Sarin, who spoke at the occasion, underlined the growing importance of genetic counseling in cancer care, emphasizing how it helps identify people who are at high hereditary risk and empowers them to make educated health decisions.

For enrolled patients, SGCC&RI provides free genetic counseling sessions, which include risk assessment and preventive advice, in partnership with the Genetic Counseling Clinic at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. A small fee has been implemented for patients who are recommended by other medical facilities.

The clinic, which is manned by highly qualified physicians and nurses, operates twice a week on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 AM to 4 PM. Strict patient anonymity is maintained.

SGCC&RI Honorary Secretary Anjan Gupta was upbeat about the program, saying it will enable people and families to take preventative measures against cancer.

“We want everyone, regardless of financial situation, to have access to genetic testing and counseling. We can take preventative action and possibly save lives before cancer begins by identifying those who are at risk,” said Dr. Arnab Gupta.

A great initiative in treating cancer patients.

Priyanka Dutta