Mumbai: The Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India (HNCII) – a dedicated super-specialty hospital for head and neck cancers – marked its 2nd HNCII Foundation Day with a high-profile Oncology Conclave.
The event celebrated clinical milestones while addressing India’s growing cancer burden and the urgent need for stronger prevention and early detection initiatives.
Rising Cancer Burden in India
During the HNCII Foundation Day, experts highlighted that head and neck cancers account for 27-30% of all cancer cases in India, compared to less than 5% in the United States and Western Europe.
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The country records more than 200,000 new cases every year, with nearly 60% diagnosed at advanced stages. Most of these cases are linked to tobacco consumption.
Experts stressed that improving early diagnosis at Stage 1 or 2 can significantly enhance survival outcomes and reduce India’s cancer mortality rate.
HNCII: Clinical Achievements
Since inception, HNCII has made significant progress in delivering accessible oncology care. Its achievements include:
- 53,013 OPD consultations, including 30,742 free consultations
- 14,447 admissions and 6,952 surgeries performed
- 6,942 chemotherapy sessions and 1,142 radiation therapies delivered
- 1,690 outreach cancer screenings, extending healthcare to underserved communities
These achievements underline the institute’s mission to close the gap between India and developed nations in terms of cancer care infrastructure and accessibility.
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HNCII Foundation Day: Global Experts at the Conclave
The HNCII Foundation Day Oncology Conclave featured leading international voices. Prof Ashok R. Shaha, Head & Neck Surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, delivered the HNCII Oration on “Completion Thyroidectomy Circa 1992.”
Prof Farokh E Udwadia of Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, shared insights from his critical care journey. Dr Sultan Pradhan, Founder & Chairman of HNCII, stated: “India is facing a silent cancer epidemic. While advanced surgical innovations like the submental flap have transformed outcomes, the urgent priority is prevention, awareness, and early detection.”
Prof Ashok R. Shaha added: “In just two years, HNCII has shown that world-class cancer treatment and academic excellence can coexist in India. This is a remarkable achievement.”
The HNCII Foundation Day reaffirmed the institute’s mission to function not only as a treatment centre but also as a hub of research, training, and innovation.
With India’s rising cancer burden, the institute continues to emphasize the importance of nationwide prevention programs, tobacco control, and early detection initiatives to improve survival rates and reduce cancer mortality.
