The 23rd Annual International Conference, RGCON 2025, organised by the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC), underscored the critical importance of preventive measures and innovative treatment approaches in combating gynecological cancers. The conference highlighted the urgent need for advancements in research, technology, and collaborative efforts to address the growing burden of gynecological cancers.
Rakesh Chopra, Chairman, RGCIRC, highlighted the growing crisis of gynecological cancers accounting for 19 per cent of global female cancers, with India facing particularly alarming trends. “Cervical cancer alone causes 77,000 annual deaths here, while ovarian cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages, maintains a grim <50 per cent survival rate,” he noted, stressing that “most gynecological cancers are preventable through HPV vaccination and screening or are treatable, if detected early”. Warning of a projected 55 per cent surge by 2040, Chopra called for urgent action against awareness gaps and healthcare barriers, even as RGCIRC leads the charge - handling 7,450 cases and performing 650 gynecologic cancer surgeries annually through its specialised department.
DS Negi, CEO, RGCIRC, highlighted the institute’s pioneering use of cutting-edge technologies for cancer diagnosis and treatment. “The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare is set to revolutionise cancer management, and RGCIRC has already initiated a comprehensive plan to harness AI for process improvements and enhanced patient care,” he stated. Professor GK Rath, former Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), former Chief of BRIRCH and former Head of Radiation Oncology at AIIMS, Delhi, emphasised India’s unique position as a hub for cancer research, particularly in studying the epidemiology of cancer and HPV-related cancers, which are preventable. “India’s diverse cancer landscape provides unparalleled opportunities to understand and address the challenges posed by this disease. Remarkably, 60 per cent of cancers in India, including tobacco and infection-related cancers like cervical cancer, are preventable,” he said.
Dr Sudhir Rawal, Medical Director and Chief of Genito-Uro Oncology Services at RGCIRC, hailed RGCON 2025 as a groundbreaking platform that is revolutionising gynecological cancer care through cutting-edge research, innovation and global collaboration.
