Clinical trial research helps in decline in breast cancer mortality: Director of Tata Memorial Center

Clinical trial research helps in decline in breast cancer mortality: Director of Tata Memorial Center

“Clinical trial research has contributed to a significant drop in breast cancer mortality, particularly in the last 20 years. It is vital that this research continues to explore scientific questions which benefit the whole community” said Dr. R. A. Badwe, Director of Tata Memorial Center here on Thursday.

Mr. Badwe, who is also the president of Tata Memorial Hospital – Women’s Cancer Initiative, was addressing reporters on the eve of a three-day conference on “Advances in Breast Cancer 2014”. For the first time, a unique course has been organised for oncologists along with a multidisciplinary breast cancer conference.

“This conference is an answer to the biggest need gap of developing a platform that updates oncologists on how to incorporate latest advances and adapt guidelines in clinical practice”, said Dr. Badwe.

This state-of-the-art meeting is jointly organised by Indian Cancer Society (Educational Programs), Tata Memorial Hospital (WCI) and GOKARMA Oncology Association.

“As October is breast cancer awareness month, we need the community to come forward to spread awareness about preventive screening and break the myth of breast cancer treatment. If the disease is diagnosed early, the chances of cure increase. Early detection is known to save lives,” said Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Chief of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, Goa and President of Gokarma Oncology Association.

Dr.Vinay Deshmane - Breast Surgeon at Breach Candy Hospital, Hinduja Hospital and Asian Institute of Oncology, Mumbai, said that the aim of the conference is to bring specialists from diverse backgrounds to have a multidisciplinary symposium highlighting the advances in Breast Cancer research and treatment.

At this symposium, experts will strive to provide a forum for private and academic physicians involved in the management of breast cancer as well as other health workers, to interact with thought-leaders in the field. An important goal of the symposium is to reach out to young professionals by providing strong educational and training opportunities.

There will be around 300 participants from across India and a list of internationally acclaimed guest speakers to discuss important research findings and future clinical treatment strategies.