In a monumental step towards advancing cancer care in India, the Indian Society of Medical & Paediatric Oncology (ISMPO) and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH) recently hosted a groundbreaking conference in Delhi.

Aimed at fostering scientific research, sharing knowledge, and establishing educational and research opportunities, the event brought together some of the brightest minds in oncology from around the world.

One of the conference's standout features was the collaboration between the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) and ISMPO, marking a first-of-its-kind partnership in India. This international cooperation signifies the growing emphasis on global expertise and cutting-edge innovations in cancer treatment within the country.

A Conference of Leaders

The organising committee, led by Dr. Shyam Aggarwal, Chairperson of Medical Oncology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, and Dr. Anupam Sachdeva, Co-Director of Pediatrics at the same institution, meticulously designed the event to foster a collaborative environment. With over 70 years of excellence, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital has a legacy of delivering compassionate, world-class healthcare, and this conference was no exception.

The event saw the presence of distinguished figures such as Dr. D.S. Rana, Chairman of the Sir Ganga Ram Trust Society, and Dr. Ajay Swaroop, Chairman of SGRH, who underscored the hospital's dedication to comprehensive cancer care. The recent addition of radiotherapy to SGRH’s cancer treatment services further enhances its ability to offer a holistic cancer care experience under one roof.

SGRH is renowned for its ethical medical practices, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to education and research across 72 disciplines. With postgraduate training programs in over 50 areas, the hospital continues to be a leader in academic and clinical advancements, with cancer care being a central focus.

International Expertise Meets Local Excellence

A highlight of the conference was the participation of over 30 international specialists and 300 national experts who shared the latest updates and innovations in oncology. 

Attendees were treated to insights on cutting-edge topics such as cancer genomics, precision medicine, artificial intelligence in oncology, and CAR-T cell therapy.

The theme of ISMPOCON 2024, "Cancer-Genomics-Precision," provided a robust framework for exploring these emerging areas. The discussions covered all aspects of cancer care, including palliative care, geriatrics, hematology, pathology, nuclear medicine, and solid organ-specific tracks, ensuring a comprehensive view of the cancer care landscape.

International speakers like Dr. Fernanda Mosele from France, Dr. Naureen Starling from the UK, and Dr. Giuseppe Curigliano from Italy captivated the audience with their expertise, offering invaluable ESMO updates and insights that have the potential to shape cancer care strategies in India.

Empowering the Next Generation of Oncologists

One of the key objectives of the conference was to nurture the next generation of oncology professionals. More than 100 postgraduate students presented their research papers, which were evaluated and awarded, aligning with ISMPO's mission to promote education and research in the field. 

This emphasis on young talent ensures that the future of oncology in India remains in capable hands.

A Collaborative Future for Cancer Care

Dr. Maheboob Basade, President of ISMPO, and Dr. Kumar Prabhash, Secretary, expressed their gratitude to all participants, highlighting the importance of such collaborations in advancing cancer research and treatment. Dr. S.H. Advani, Chief Patron of ISMPOCON, praised the efforts of ISMPO and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in their ongoing fight against cancer, encouraging them to continue their pioneering work.

With over 600 delegates in attendance, the conference was not just a success but a testament to the power of collaboration in the fight against cancer. By bringing together global expertise and fostering local talent, ISMPOCON 2024 has set a new standard for oncology conferences in India.

The future of cancer care in India looks promising, with institutions like ISMPO and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital leading the charge, armed with the latest innovations and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. 

This conference has paved the way for more breakthroughs, ensuring that Indian patients have access to the best cancer care available globally.