Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a type of blood cancer that is now considered curable in majority of patients who present in early stage. The cure of this cancer is possible with the help of medicine called as “Magic Bullet” or Imatinibmesylate. The average life of patient with this type of cancer was only 2-3 years before the advent of this medicine. This cancer is now considered as chronic disease like diabetes and hypertension. Since 2001, PGI, Chandigarh in association with The Max Foundation is providing this medicine free of cost to patients who are not able to afford. The number of patients living with this type of cancer and are in good state of health have increased tremendously signifying the magic of this medicine. The patient taking the medicine regularly and with regular health checkup can expect a normal life expectancy.
To create public awareness about cure of this cancer, 22nd September is celebrated as “World CML Day”. Following the motto “all united, all unique”, World CML Day reminds us that a close collaboration between scientists, clinicians and patient organisations is key to improving the outcomes for patients with CML around the world.
More than 3000 patients of this cancer come to PGI Chandigarh and almost half of them get medicines free of cost with the help of The Max Foundation.
The Departments of Internal Medicine and Hematology with the help of Friends of Max and The Max Foundation celebrate CML day with CML patients once in every two years. This time the meeting is being held on 22nd September 2019 at Bhargava Auditorium from 9 AM to 1 PM. More than 1000 patients and their family members are likely to attend this meeting.
You are invited to attend this programme and help in creating awareness about the disease and its curability option.