Guests at the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (HBCH&RC), Visakhapatnam's 4th Annual Cancer Congress.
| Photo Credit: BY ARRANGEMENT
The Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (HBCH&RC), Visakhapatnam, recently hosted its 4th Annual Cancer Congress, marking a significant milestone in commemoration of its 12th Foundation Day celebrations.The two-day academic event focused on “Advances in Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Cancers,” addressing malignancies that currently represent nearly 25–30% of adult cancer diagnoses in India.The Congress served as a multidisciplinary platform for clinicians, researchers, and postgraduate students from Andhra Pradesh and neighboring States, including Odisha, Telangana, and West Bengal, to engage in knowledge exchange and collaborative discourse.The scientific programme highlighted emerging technologies and clinical methodologies set to redefine cancer care.Key sessions explored the implementation of Magnetic Resonance-guided Radiotherapy (MRgRT), the evolution of robotic and minimally invasive surgical techniques, and advancements in interventional radiology. Furthermore, experts discussed the shifting paradigms in targeted therapies and immunotherapies, emphasising their role in enhancing patient outcomes.The conference was preceded by a series of hands-on workshops in Interventional Radiology, Radiation Oncology, and Surgical Oncology, and provided participants with intensive practical training under the guidance of national and international faculty.Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of the Armed Forces Medical Services, attended the event as the chief Guest.In her inaugural address, she highlighted the critical need for a “multidisciplinary approach” in oncology. She stressed that continuous scientific updating and the seamless integration of personalised medicine into clinical practice are essential to meeting the modern challenges of cancer management.The event featured an insightful Hospital Oration delivered by Dr. Shailesh V. Shrikhande, an acclaimed expert in pancreatic cancer, who provided a detailed analysis of the evolving landscape of oncological treatment.Dr. Umesh Mahantshetty, Director of HBCH&RC, Visakhapatnam, reiterated the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.“On the occasion of our Foundation Day, we are pleased to organise this Congress, which reflects our dedication to continuous learning and the improvement of patient care through collaborative research,” he said.The event drew approximately 150 delegates, establishing itself as a key regional forum for oncological advancement and fostering academic discourse across the eastern coastal region. Published - June 07, 2026 09:27 pm IST








