The Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council hosted the Lung Health & Oncology National Conference 2024, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection, equitable healthcare access, and innovative treatments in confronting one of India’s most challenging cancer types.
India sees 72,510 new lung cancer cases each year, with a concerning death toll of 66,279. As a particularly lethal cancer, over 75% of patients are identified in its advanced stages. This is exacerbated by factors like tobacco use, environmental pollutants, and postponed screenings, necessitating a comprehensive approach from all involved parties.
Dr. Urvashi Prasad, former director at NITI Aayog, stressed the need for inclusive cancer care, noting, “A robust cancer care model should prioritize patients’ physical, mental, and social health. Besides conventional treatment, supportive services like mental health counseling, dietary advice, and robust palliative care must be integrated.”
The conference explored the groundbreaking potential of modern diagnostic methods, including AI-empowered radiology and molecular biomarkers. These innovations assist clinicians in identifying lung cancer at its earliest and devising personalized treatment plans based on the tumors’ distinct genetic properties.
Dr. Saroj Das Majumder, head of radiation oncology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, highlighted the revolutionary changes in radiation therapy, stating, “We are witnessing groundbreaking advancements in radiation oncology that are redefining lung cancer treatments. Novel methods such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy and image-guided radiation therapy provide unparalleled accuracy, effectively targeting tumors while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.”
Vivek Tomar, co-founder of Rise to Survive Cancer, commented, “Defeating cancer is only part of the journey. Survivors often endure prolonged health complications, emotional distress, and financial hardships. Building strong communities through education, peer support, and resource availability is vital for sustaining lives post-treatment. Collaborating among healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocacy organizations is crucial for ensuring sustainable access to necessary services for survivors.”
Key topics at the conference included state-of-the-art therapeutic strategies such as minimally invasive robotic surgery, radiation therapy, and new drug combinations. Experts shared practical insights on adapting global treatment protocols within the Indian context, where regional differences and insufficient health infrastructure are significant obstacles.
The event concluded with an emphatic collective call to partners in government, healthcare, and advocacy to join forces in alleviating the lung cancer burden in India. Attendees highlighted the urgency for public education campaigns, initiatives for early diagnosis, and cost-effective treatment plans to effectively confront the challenges of this formidable disease.