Thiruvananthapuram: A two-day Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025, aimed at exploring new challenges and possibilities in cancer treatment, will be held in Thiruvananthapuram on June 28-29, to focus on innovative approaches to cancer care.
Organised under the leadership of the Association of Medical and Paediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK), the conclave will attract over 200 cancer treatment experts from within and outside India. The event will feature discussions across seven key sessions on critical topics related to cancer care.
Briefing the media, Dr Boben Thomas, Secretary of AMPOK, said, “The inaugural Kerala Cancer Conclave, a first-of-its-kind event in the country, is an attempt by AMPOK to bring together all the stakeholders to improve cancer treatment and awareness. A cancer opinion survey will also be released as part of the Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025. The conclave will analyse the challenges and opportunities in cancer treatment in Kerala based on statistical data of cancer patients.”
The chief guest will be Padma Bhushan Dr. Suresh H Advani, widely regarded as the father of cancer treatment in India. Other notable speakers include Padma Shri Dr. M R Rajagopal, founder of Pallium India; Prof. Chandrabhas Narayana, Director of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology; Dr. C S Pramesh, Director of Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai; Dr. Satheesan, Director of Malabar Cancer Centre; Fr. Dr. Binu Kunnath, President of the Kerala Chapter of Catholic Hospitals of India; Dr. Narayanan Kutty Warrier; and Dr. Aju Mathew.
Prominent doctors in the field, including Dr. Shaji Kumar from Mayo Clinic, USA; Dr. Sabi George from Roswell Park, USA; Dr. M V Pillai; Dr. Ben George; Dr. Jemi Abraham; Dr. Rakesh Jalali from Apollo Proton Centre, Chennai; Dr. S.S. Lal; Dr. M.R. Rajagopal; and Dr. Bhavana Sirohi, are expected to participate in the discussions.
Key discussion topics include the role and misuse of media in cancer control activities, necessary changes in the use of medications in cancer treatment, accessibility of cancer care, availability of insurance facilities, the need for research and further studies in the field, and the role of genomics and precision medicine in cancer care.
Conducted between October and December 2024, the study sheds light on public knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning cancer risk factors, prevention strategies and screening. The results underscore the urgent need for tailored educational interventions and improved access to preventive services.
Kerala is experiencing a significant rise in its cancer burden, driven by demographic shifts and lifestyle changes. Recognising this critical challenge, AMPOK undertook this extensive survey to gather evidence to guide future health education campaigns and inform policy decisions aimed at cancer prevention and early detection.