Saroj Gupta Cancer Center & Research Institute in Kolkata, West Bengal

Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute (SGCC&RI) – An Overview

The Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute  is one of the premier cancer treatment hospitals in India, located in Chak Thakurani, West Bengal. Founded by the visionary Dr. Saroj Gupta in 1973, SGCC&RI started with the goal of providing comprehensive cancer care to underprivileged patients. Over the years, the hospital has grown into a fully equipped, modern cancer treatment facility spread over 16 acres of lush green landscape, offering world-class cancer care, advanced research, and treatment options at affordable costs.

The Legacy of Dr. Saroj Gupta

Vision and Inception

The institute was conceived with the aim of offering specialized care to cancer patients, especially those from remote and economically disadvantaged areas. Dr. Saroj Gupta, then a young radiotherapist, noticed the severe lack of resources for cancer patients in the region. Motivated by his own experiences and empathy for the patients who couldn’t even secure a hospital bed for treatment, Dr. Gupta founded SGCC&RI. His vision was to make cancer care accessible and affordable to all, particularly the underprivileged.

In its initial stages, the institute operated with limited resources and relied on philanthropic contributions from diverse sections of society, including school children, industrialists, and celebrities. The first fundraiser for SGCC&RI was a drama that Dr. Gupta himself acted in, portraying a cancer patient unable to secure treatment in the big city. This resonated with the public, generating widespread support for the cause.

Growth and Development

From its humble beginnings, the Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre has grown into a 311-bed, state-of-the-art facility, complete with cutting-edge diagnostic, surgical, and therapeutic equipment. Over the past three decades, the institute has expanded its offerings to include comprehensive cancer care services, modern radiation therapy machines, advanced surgical units, and continuous research in oncology.

SGCC&RI is not only recognized nationally but also has international acclaim. It is a member of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and has earned several accolades for its commitment to cancer research and treatment.

Facilities and Services at SGCC&RI

1. Patient-Centric Environment

• Sprawling 16-Acre Campus: The hospital is set in a sprawling 16-acre campus with lush green lawns, water bodies, and hillocks, offering a tranquil environment for patients and their families.
• Amusement Park and Toy Train: These amenities provide a much-needed distraction and comfort to patients, especially children, undergoing stressful treatments like chemotherapy and surgery.
• Affordable Cancer Care: SGCC&RI ensures that all its services are priced affordably, making cancer care accessible to people from all walks of life, especially the economically disadvantaged.

2. Comprehensive Cancer Care Services

SGCC&RI offers a wide range of services aimed at comprehensive cancer care, including:

• Radiotherapy: SGCC&RI is equipped with advanced radiation therapy machines and the latest technologies for precise and effective treatment.
• Chemotherapy: Specialized units and trained oncologists provide chemotherapy treatment tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
• Surgical Oncology: The hospital has state-of-the-art surgical units for all types of complicated cancer surgeries.
• Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT): The hospital offers adult and pediatric bone marrow transplant services, one of the most advanced treatments for blood cancers.
• Endoscopy: SGCC&RI’s Endoscopy unit is equipped for diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures.

3. Advanced Diagnostics

SGCC&RI houses modern diagnostic units that offer a comprehensive range of imaging and laboratory services:

• CT Scans, MRI, and PET Scans: These imaging tools are critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Molecular Diagnostics and Biopsy Services: The hospital’s molecular diagnostics and biopsy services help in precise detection and classification of cancers, which is essential for developing personalized treatment plans.
• Blood Centre: SGCC&RI runs a blood donation and transfusion unit essential for surgeries and cancer treatments that require blood products.

4. Multidisciplinary Team of Experts

SGCC&RI has a vast and highly experienced team of doctors across multiple specialties:

• Radiation Oncology: Headed by eminent doctors like Prof. Dr. Gautam Bhattacharjee and Dr. Sampuran Kumar Acharya, the radiation oncology department employs the latest technologies in cancer radiotherapy.
• Surgical Oncology: The surgical oncology team, led by experts like Prof. Dr. Samir Bhattacharyya and Dr. Arnab Gupta, conducts advanced cancer surgeries, including minimally invasive techniques.
• Medical Oncology: The medical oncology department, headed by doctors such as Dr. Madhuchanda Kar and Dr. Rakesh Roy, provides expert chemotherapy and immunotherapy services.
• Pediatric Oncology: Specialized care is offered for children suffering from cancer under experts like Dr. Arnab Chakraborty and Dr. Soma De.
• Palliative Care & Pain Clinic: This department focuses on improving the quality of life for patients in advanced stages of cancer, helping to manage pain and other symptoms.

5. Specialty Clinics

SGCC&RI runs several specialty clinics to cater to the unique needs of cancer patients:

• Breast Cancer Clinic: Provides comprehensive care for breast cancer patients, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
• Stoma Clinic: Offers specialized care for patients who have undergone ostomy surgery, providing counseling and support.
• Speech Therapy and Rehabilitation: Patients recovering from surgeries involving the head, neck, and throat can avail of speech therapy services.

6. Holistic Patient Support

• Counseling and Psychosocial Support: The hospital provides counseling services to patients and their families to help them cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of cancer treatment.
• Music Therapy: Led by therapist Papri Saha, music therapy sessions are offered to improve patients’ mental well-being during their treatment journey.
• Support Groups: SGCC&RI runs a breast cancer support group called “Hitaishini,” which offers guidance and emotional support to breast cancer survivors and their families.

7. International Collaborations and Accolades

SGCC&RI is recognized by several prestigious national and international organizations:

• World Health Organization (WHO): The hospital is recognized by the WHO for its contributions to cancer care.
• Union for International Cancer Control (UICC): SGCC&RI is a member of UICC, an international organization working against cancer.

Research and Innovation

1. Research Division

SGCC&RI is committed to advancing cancer research through its dedicated research division. Led by prominent oncologists and scientists like Prof. Dr. Samir Bhattacharyya and Prof. Dr. Arnab Gupta, the research division focuses on:

• Epidemiology: Gathering data on cancer prevalence and risk factors in the Indian population.
• Clinical Trials: Conducting clinical trials to test new cancer therapies and improve treatment outcomes.
• Cancer Control Programs: Collaborating with international bodies to develop cancer control strategies and policies.

2. Innovative Technologies

The hospital stays ahead of the curve by adopting the latest technologies in cancer treatment and diagnostics:

• Interventional Radiology: Minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging technologies to diagnose and treat cancer.
• Molecular Biology and Genetic Research: SGCC&RI’s molecular biology labs work on the genetic aspects of cancer to develop personalized treatment plans.

Leadership and Administration

Key Personalities:

• Mr. Anjan Gupta (Honorary Secretary): B. Arch (Cal), MCP (IIT), M.Arch. (USA), an architect, and key administrator responsible for the growth and expansion of the hospital.
• Dr. Arnab Gupta (Director): FRCS (EDIN), FRCS (ENG), FIAGES, a leading oncologist and the driving force behind the hospital’s medical innovations and growth.
• Dr. Partha Haldar (Medical Superintendent): MBBS, heads the medical administration and ensures the smooth functioning of the hospital.
• Dr. Sumanta Dasgupta (Medical Administrator & HOD Anaesthesiology): MBBS, MD (Anaes.), Dip. Card., an expert in anaesthesia and critical care.

Specialized Departments at SGCC&RI

1. Radiation Oncology

This department, led by Prof. Dr. Gautam Bhattacharjee and Dr. Sampuran Kumar Acharya, provides advanced radiation therapy using cutting-edge technology.

2. Surgical Oncology

The Surgical Oncology department is known for performing complex surgeries for various types of cancers, such as head and neck cancer, breast cancer, and gastrointestinal cancer.

3. Haemato-Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)

The hospital is well-equipped to offer advanced blood cancer treatments, including bone marrow transplants, under experts like Dr. Kaushik Paul and Dr. Partha Pratim Gupta.

4. Medical Oncology

Medical oncologists like Dr. Madhuchanda Kar and Dr. Rakesh Roy provide chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies for cancer patients.

5. Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics

The Pathology department, headed by experts like Dr. Mala Banerjee, conducts advanced diagnostic tests that help in the accurate detection and staging of cancers.

Future Goals and Expansion

Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute remains committed to its mission of offering affordable, high-quality cancer care to all. Future expansion plans include upgrading its research facilities, increasing bed capacity, and expanding its outreach programs to cover more rural areas.

Through its patient-centric approach, advanced medical technology, and ongoing research, SGCC&RI continues to stand at the forefront of cancer care in India, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible treatment regardless of their financial background.