Impact on Children:
- Childhood cancers (0-14 years) account for 4% of all cancer cases in India.
- Children are indirect victims, either battling cancer themselves or being affected by a parent’s illness.
Relevance : GS 2((Health, Social Issues)
Education Disruption:
- Cancer leads to loss of educational opportunities, especially in low-income families.
- Children may be pulled out of school; older siblings often become caregivers or start working.
- Example: Meena from Pune had to drop out of school after her mother’s cancer diagnosis.
- Long-term effects: Dropouts face lower lifetime earnings and increased economic instability.
Indirect Costs of Cancer:
- Non-medical expenses: Travel, accommodation, special diets, and household help.
- Loss of income: Patients and caregivers often lose jobs or reduce work hours.
- Mental health impact: Emotional strain on both patients and family members.
Insurance & Government Schemes:
- Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY: Reduces direct medical costs; indirect costs remain largely unaddressed.
- Insurance Riders: Provide income replacement but are often costly and have strict criteria.
- Other Supports:
- Discounted travel for patients (Indian Railways, Air India).
- Free bus travel in states like Himachal Pradesh and Haryana.
- Monthly pension schemes in states like Haryana and Tripura.
Way Forward:
- Policy Focus: Move beyond direct costs; address indirect burdens through:
- Caregiver aid, educational support, and employment protection.
- Educational Interventions:
- Use of calculators, extra coaching, free school meals, and mental health support.
- Holistic Approach:
- Empathetic action at government, school, and community levels.
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and state support are essential.
Significance:
- Cancer’s indirect costs can trap families in poverty across generations.
- Ensuring education and economic opportunities for affected children safeguards the nation’s future.
