Aster DM Healthcare, one of India’s largest integrated healthcare providers, recently launched three initiatives—Precision Oncology Clinics, the Aster Cancer Grid, and Onco Collect software by the Dr Ramesh Nimmegadda Cancer Foundation. The announcements were made at the Aster Cancer Conclave 2024, an event that brought together oncologists, researchers, and industry experts to discuss advancements in cancer treatment. The conclave’s theme, PRISM: Precision in Solid Malignancies, highlighted the role of precision medicine in addressing cancer.
The Precision Oncology Clinics focus on delivering personalised cancer care based on a patient’s genomic profile. Unlike traditional treatment approaches, which use uniform protocols for all patients, this initiative tailors therapies to the genetic mutations present in a tumour. This approach aims to reduce the harmful effects of treatment while improving efficacy.
The Aster Cancer Grid is designed to standardise cancer care, facilitate multi-centre clinical trials, and support collaborative research. It will aggregate data from all Aster Hospitals and foster partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and research institutions to advance cancer research. The network’s collaboration with international research centres will enable knowledge exchange, joint funding applications, and new research initiatives in oncology.
Onco Collect, launched at all Aster Hospitals in Bengaluru, is a software platform that integrates patient data into a unified system. It aims to streamline practice management, standardise patient data, and provide outcome analysis, ensuring evidence-based treatment decisions by clinicians.
Dr Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, said, “By collaborating with world-renowned oncologists, researchers, and institutions, we aim to position India as a global leader in cancer research and treatment. Our initiatives, supported by the Aster International Institute of Oncology, are designed to implement innovative therapies and methodologies, including Intra-Operative Electron Radiation Therapy at Aster Whitefield. These advancements will offer comprehensive cancer care, making India a destination for transformative treatment.”
Dr Somashekhar S.P., Global Director of the Aster International Institute of Oncology, explained, “Genetic profiling in cancer treatment allows us to provide therapies that are more effective and less toxic. The Aster International Institute of Oncology offers a spectrum of cancer-related services, including radiation and electron therapy, under one roof. Robotic surgery at the institute enhances precision in treatment. This is a significant opportunity for patients in India to access advanced cancer care domestically.”
Dr Zeba Moopen, Non-Executive Director of Aster DM Healthcare, said, “The Aster Cancer Grid will optimise resource utilisation and facilitate collaboration among oncologists across our network. By analysing patient data with AI, we can uncover patterns, predict outcomes, and improve treatment precision. This approach prioritises patient care while accelerating innovative solutions.”
Dr C.N. Patil, HOD and Lead Consultant, Medical Oncology and Haemato-Oncology at Aster Whitefield Hospital, noted, “Onco Collect ensures precision treatment by tracking patient outcomes in real time and adjusting treatment plans when needed. Leveraging India’s software expertise, this system combines automation with human oversight to enhance accuracy in understanding cancer dynamics.”
The launches at the Aster Cancer Conclave 2024 signal a shift in India’s oncology care landscape. By focusing on precision medicine, collaborative research, and data-driven treatment, these initiatives aim to make cancer care more efficient and accessible across the country.