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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.
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Cancer burden in Kerala set to rise by 2030; breast, lung cancer leading
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR) projects that by 2030, every year cancer will affect 45,813 women and 43,930 men in Kerala. This forecast, shared at the Kerala Cancer Conclave organised by the Association of Medical and Pediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK), reflects growing concerns among medical experts regarding the increasing cancer burden in the state. In 2024, 43,110 men and 45,008 women were diagnosed with cancer, making the projected rise seem relatively modest. However, Dr. Prashant Mathur, Director of ICMR-NCDIR, which oversees the country's cancer registries, emphasised that the growth in Kerala, which is already burdened with a cancer incidence more than double the national average, is alarming. "The incidence of cancer in Kerala is above the national average for both men and women, highlighting the urgent need for stronger preventive measures," he said. On a positive note, Dr. Mathur acknowledged that Kerala's cancer survival rates are comparatively favorable. Dr. Suresh H. Advani, considered the father of cancer treatment in India, noted a concerning increase in breast and thyroid cancer among women in Kerala in recent years. "Thyroid cancer is so prevalent that even in smaller cities, there are 3-4 surgeries every week," he remarked. Dr. Narayanankutty Warrier, Medical Director of the MVR Cancer Centre and Research Institute, pointed to a 300% increase in breast cancer cases over the last 25 years. He noted that the high prevalence of diabetes in the population is a major driver of lifestyle-related diseases.
