8 women dying daily due to cancer in Punjab: Seechewal in Parliament

Seechewal also noted that the cancer cases were sharply increasing among women aged 50 to 56 years. He attributed the growing cancer burden to environmental pollution, especially contaminated water.

He also pointed out that the excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides in agriculture is severely impacting public health. Citing past examples, he mentioned that chemicals like DDT were banned only after traces were found in breast milk.

The AAP MP urged both the Centre and the state to ensure 100 per cent free cancer treatment for women. He also demanded that economically weaker families be provided with at least 75 to 80 per cent subsidy for cancer care.

He emphasised that whether treatment is received in a government or private hospital, cancer patients must be guaranteed access to special and quality healthcare services. He stressed that safeguarding women’s health must be a top societal priority, as women form the foundation of families and communities. The issue, he asserted, is directly connected to the future and survival of Punjab.