Chronicles

In early fifties, the combined Radiology department of SCB Medical College, Cuttack started treating cancer using deep X-ray therapy and radium application. In 1962, a full fledged Radiotherapy department with 100 beds was started. Thereafter in 1967, it was designated as the Cancer Wing of SCB Medical College, Cuttack and a Theratron-Jr telecobalt unit was installed under the Colombo-plan. During 1971-73 another telecobalt unit Eldorado-6 was added to the treatment armamentarium.

On the recommendation of the WAHI committee, the status of the Cancer Wing was elevated to the level of a Regional Cancer Centre for Research and Treatment in 1983 with a view to develop it into an integrated complex providing for research, investigations, early detection and treatment & prevention of cancer. On 24th April 1984, this Regional Cancer Centre was declared as an autonomous institution and was named Acharya Harihar Regional Cancer Centre, Cuttack, after the great dedicated social worker Acharya Harihara, a disciple of Acharya Vinoba Bhabe, founder of the Bhudan movement.

Now, this hospital forms an important component for treatment of cancer in the eastern part of India covering the whole state of Orissa and its neighboring states like Andhrapradesh, Chhatisgarh, West Bengal, Bihar and Jhadakhand.