Nashik, June 18: HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC), the leader in comprehensive oncology care, has announced the availability of Scalp Cooling Therapy – a breakthrough technology designed to minimize hair loss during chemotherapy. The facility brings much needed relief to thousands of cancer patients, especially women, helping them preserve not just their hair, but also their sense of self. The advanced offering reaffirms the hospital’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge complementary procedures that address both clinical and emotional needs of cancer patients.

Also known as cold cap therapy, scalp cooling involves the use of a specialized cap worn by the patient before, during and after chemotherapy. The cooling reduces blood flow to the scalp, thereby minimizing the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach hair follicles resulting in significantly less hair loss.

“Hair loss is one of the most distressing side effects of cancer treatment. It affects not just appearance but also a patient's identity, self-esteem and mental health. At HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, we believe cancer care must go beyond treating the disease; it must care for the person. Thanks to scalp cooling, a specially designed therapy that cools the scalp during chemotherapy, patients can now avoid or greatly minimize this traumatic experience. By preserving their hair, we help patients retain their confidence and emotional strength through one of the toughest journeys of their life,” says Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services and Managing Director - KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre and Six Sigma, Nashik.

The therapy is backed by strong clinical evidence. In 2017, the U.S. FDA approved two scalp cooling systems (DigniCap and Paxman), which showed that 50 to 65 per cent of women retained at least half their hair during treatment. While individual results may vary, the emotional impact is consistently powerful.

“I looked in the mirror and saw a strong woman with hair,” shared a Nashik-based patient.

Hair loss can isolate patients socially and emotionally. Scalp cooling helps protect more than follicles, it safeguards privacy, emotional well-being and resilience. It’s now being extended to male and paediatric patients, recognizing the role of appearance and self-esteem in all age groups. Scalp cooling is considered safe, with mild and temporary side effects such as cold sensation or slight headache. Earlier concerns about the therapy interfering with drug efficacy have been dismissed by long-term studies.

“We’ve made scalp cooling a standard part of treatment consultations at our centre because patients deserve to know all their options upfront. Also, that this advanced facility is now available in Nashik means patients don’t have to travel to big cities anymore for such care. Despite its benefits, awareness remains limited. Our goal is to make this technology more accessible and widely adopted,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.

About HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC): -

Established in 2007 by Dr Raj Nagarkar, HCGMCC – Nashik is Central India's first NABH-accredited facility. With over 50 consultant oncologists, 900 staff members and a 275-bed capacity, HCGMCC is a leading institution, offering holistic cancer treatment. Specializing in surgical, radiation and medical oncology, the centre has conducted 65,000 surgeries, including 1,400 plus robotic-assisted procedures. Patient-centric and multidisciplinary, HCGMCC recommends treatments to individual needs. Beyond clinical excellence, the centre’s financial aid programs underscore its commitment to accessibility and community well-being, redefining cancer care in the pursuit of a cancer-free future.