Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital hosted the 8th edition of Max Cancer Congress, the annual flagship event of Max Healthcare and one of the largest oncology conferences in India. This year marked its first appearance in Mumbai, attracting over 1,400 oncologists and more than 50 international experts. The three-day event provided a platform for detailed clinical discussions, knowledge exchange, and innovation in cancer care.
The congress introduced the Max Healthcare Award for Excellence in Oncology Research, an initiative by Max Healthcare Foundation to promote and encourage research in the field of oncology in India. The award was conferred on Dr. Kumar Prabhash, Professor and Head, Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Centre, for his research on low-dose immunotherapy for head and neck cancers. This research has changed the cost structure of immunotherapy protocols, making them more affordable for patients in developing countries.
Speaking about the event’s objective, Dr. Harit Chaturvedi, Chairperson of Max Institute of Cancer Care, highlighted the challenges presented by cancer in India. “The increasing incidence rates have intensified the need for accessible, advanced treatments. This conference serves as a platform to address these issues through technical discussions and knowledge sharing. The insights gained here will be instrumental in shaping the future of cancer care in India,” Dr. Chaturvedi added.
The conference featured a series of lectures and orientations focusing on breakthroughs in oncology. National and international faculty members shared evidence-based clinical practices through interactive symposia, debates, and case-based panel discussions.
Abhay Soi, Chairman and Managing Director of Max Healthcare, presided over the inauguration ceremony alongside the clinical team. “This event was a congregation of brilliant minds, determined to beat cancer. Such exchange of knowledge and experience often leads to scientific advancements, hugely benefitting individuals living with this dreaded disease. We are also hopeful that the Max Healthcare Award for Excellence in Oncology encourages clinicians and bioengineering experts to engage in original research work and represent Indian healthcare across all internationally renowned platforms.”
In addition to academic discussions, the Nidarr Hamesha event celebrated the resilience of cancer patients and their families.
Dr Hemant B. Tongaonkar, Organising Chairperson of Max Cancer Congress 2024 and Senior Director, Urologic and Gynecologic Oncology at Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care, stated, “Over 200 sessions spanned across three days, we held multidisciplinary discussions focused on best treatment practices and interdisciplinary collaborations. Our core objective is to pave the way for the next generation of cancer treatments to reduce the physiological and economic burden of cancer in the coming years.”
Dr Ganesh Nagarajan, Organising Secretary of Max Cancer Congress 2024 and Director of Gastroenterology and Hepato-Pancreatic-Billiary Surgery at Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care, noted that video workshops on surgical oncology presented advancements in robotic and laparoscopic surgeries. He mentioned that precision oncology workshops and panel discussions explored integrating molecular information into clinical practice, while radiation oncologists discussed contouring and stereotactic radiosurgery, reinforcing the congress’s focus on advanced treatments.
Dr Muzammil Shaikh, Organising Secretary of Max Cancer Congress 2024 and Director of Medical Oncology at Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care, highlighted an Innovator Workshop as a major event feature. The session explored the interface between medicine and technology, emphasising the role of innovation in cancer care. The congress also hosted interactive Onco-Radio-Path tumour boards and comprehensive sessions in palliative care, oncology nursing, nutrition, genetics, anaesthesia, and critical care, providing a holistic view of oncology.