Latest news with #AssociationofMedicalandPaediatricOncologistsofKerala
New Indian Express
2 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
AMPOK announces cancer research grant worth Rs 5 lakh
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Association of Medical and Paediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK) announced a research grant of Rs 5 lakh for cancer research at the Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025, which concluded on Sunday. The announcement comes at a time when experts are raising concerns about the quality of cancer studies, which are crucial for the prevention and treatment of cancer in the state. According to data presented by Prashant Mathur, Director of the National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR), by 2030, cancer is expected to affect 45,813 women and 43,930 men in Kerala. Dr Boben Thomas, secretary of AMPOK, revealed that 'Kerala Cancer Conclave 2.0' would be held in the future, promising further advancements and collaborations in the fight against cancer. Over the course of two days, the conclave featured extensive discussions on eight key topics and four dedicated scientific sessions. More than 50 esteemed speakers, including leading oncologists, healthcare policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders from around the world, participated in the event. On the final day, Dr Shaji Kumar, the Mark and Judy Mullins Professor of Hematological Malignancies and Chair of the Myeloma and Amyloidosis Group at Mayo Clinic, discussed the next-generation tools for cancer treatment, including CAR-T cell therapy and bispecific antibodies. Additionally, renowned artist B D Dethan performed a live painting during the inaugural ceremony, and AMPOK acquired the artwork. The event featured the launch of a special souvenir magazine, 'Stories That Heal, Visions That Inspire,' a heartfelt collection of reflections and insights from over twenty esteemed oncologists of Kerala origin. The first copy was unveiled by the souvenir's editor, Dr Ashok S Komaranchath, and presented to the dignitaries.
The Hindu
5 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Kerala Cancer Conclave from Saturday
The Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025, organised by the Association of Medical and Paediatric Oncologists of Kerala, will begin here on Saturday. The two-day event, which aims at exploring new challenges and innovative approaches to cancer care and treatment, will be inaugurated by Speaker A.N. Shamseer. Suresh H. Advani, widely regarded as the father of cancer treatment in India, will be the chief guest on the occasion. Other notable speakers at the inaugural session include M.R. Rajagopal, founder-chairman of Pallium India; Chandrabhas Narayana, Director of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology; C.S. Pramesh, director of Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai; B. Satheesan, Director, Malabar Cancer Centre; and Binu Kunnath, president of the Kerala Chapter of Catholic Hospitals of India; among others. Over 200 cancer treatment experts from within and outside the country are participating in the event. The two-day event will feature discussions across seven key sessions on critical topics related to cancer care. The conclave will analyse the challenges and opportunities in cancer treatment in Kerala based on the statistical data of cancer patients. 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 will be the main topics of discussion. A live painting session by artist B.D. Dathan, as part of cancer awareness creation, will be one of the main events on the sidelines.
The Hindu
6 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Despite high cancer awareness, survey reveals gaps in its prevention and screening in Kerala
A cancer awareness survey conducted by the Association of Medical and Paediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK) has revealed that despite high awareness of cancer there exists gaps in prevention and screening in Kerala The survey, which was conducted in October-December 2024, sheds light on the public knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning cancer risk factors, prevention strategies and screening. The survey engaged 2,443 individuals above 18 years of age, with 2,361 residing in Kerala. They were administered a questionnaire in Malayalam, which was designed by a team of oncologists in the State. A significant 90% of respondents reported some level of awareness about common cancer symptoms, and approximately 80% felt confident in identifying early signs. About 84% expressed concern about their personal risk of developing cancer. Nearly 57% confidently identified unhealthy lifestyle habits (diet, physical activity, substance abuse) as cancer contributors Close to 90% recognised smoking as a causative factor for cancer and nearly 73% acknowledged the role of alcohol consumption in aggravating cancer risk. A strong majority (91%) perceived a moderate to strong link between tobacco or alcohol use and cancer risk. Negative influence One interesting finding was that 61% of participants believed that the portrayal of tobacco and alcohol use by sportspersons and celebrities in movies and advertisements was a negative influence on youngsters. To the questions, 'Do you believe that lifestyle plays a role in cancer risk' and 'do you engage in regular check-ups or screening against cancer?', about 80% of respondents reported never having undergone cancer screening, highlighting a significant gap between awareness and preventive action. Despite high general awareness, several myths persisted. About 18% incorrectly associated mobile phone use with cancer, and 25% mistakenly linked even safe pesticide use to cancer risk. Financial implications Regarding cancer treatment, the financial implications were a primary concern for 73% of respondents. While 38% worried about treatment effectiveness, nearly 50% were concerned about the side effects. Only 15% believed vaccines could prevent certain cancers. Only 29% were aware of the role of genetic testing in prevention and early detection. Notably, only 17% viewed a cancer diagnosis to be a death sentence and 66% believed there was no stigma associated with cancer in their communities. About 70% of the participants cited both the internet/social media and healthcare professionals as primary sources of cancer-related information. Knowledge gap 'The significant gaps in knowledge about specific preventive measures like vaccination and genetic testing, coupled with the alarmingly low screening rates, demand immediate attention,'Aju Mathew, Organising Chairman, AMPOK, said. The survey results underscores the importance of developing tailored educational interventions to address misconceptions and promote evidence-based preventive behaviours. Improving access to affordable and accessible cancer screening and treatment services, leveraging digital platforms for widespread dissemination of accurate information are important, Dr. Mathew said.
New Indian Express
20-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025 to be held in Thiruvananthapuram on June 28, 29
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025, to be organised by the Association of Medical and Paediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK) in association with cancer experts from India and abroad, will be held at Hotel Hyatt Regency in the state capital on June 28 and 29. The conclave, aimed at exploring the challenges and possibilities of cancer treatment, will discuss innovative ways to treat the disease. Noted doctors in the field of cancer treatment, including Shaji Kumar from the Mayo Clinic in USA, Sabi George, M V Pillai, Ben George and James Abraham from Roswell Park in the United States, will take part in the discussions in various categories. Other exerts to speak at the two-day conclave include Dr S S Lal, Dr Satheesan, Dr M R Rajagopal, Jayant Mammen Mathew, Murali Thummarukudy, Dr Pramish C S and Dr Bhavana Sirohi. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MPs N K Premachandran, John Brittas, and Shafi Parambil in addition to AMPOK secretary Dr Boban Thomas will speak on the role of governments in cancer control. A cancer opinion survey will also be released at the conclave, said Dr Boban Thomas and Dr Aju Mathew. The major topics that will be discussed at the conference include State of Kerala: Cancer Landscape, Delivering Cancer Care Services - Challenges and Scope for Improvement, Use and Misuse of Media in Cancer Control Efforts, SWOT of Pharmaceuticals in Cancer Care, Access and Affordability of Cancer Care: Payer, Payee, and System, Role of Policymakers in Cancer Control, Research in Kerala: What is the Missing Link, Genomics and Precision Medicine in Cancer Care: Unraveling Its Fullest Potential.
