Session 1
State of Kerala: Cancer Landscape
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
This session will explore the current epidemiology of cancer in Kerala, along with emerging trends and projections. It will offer a comprehensive overview of the cancer burden in the state, with a special emphasis on preparedness and future strategies for cancer control.
Moderator
Speakers
Coordinators
Inauguration
Launch & Light!
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Formal opening of the Kerala Cancer Conclave 2025 with traditional lamp lighting, welcome addresses from key delegates, and a preview of the comprehensive sessions scheduled over the two days.
Break
Time for Tea-nergy!
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Tea and networking to boost your energy!
Session 2
Delivering Cancer Care Services – Challenges and Scope for Improvement
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
This session will examine the cancer care landscape across diverse healthcare settings in India, with a particular focus on Kerala. Key discussions will include reducing barriers to access, ensuring uniformity and quality in care delivery, and addressing challenges within both public and private healthcare systems. The session aims to identify actionable strategies to strengthen cancer care services and sharpen our collective response to the cancer burden in the country.
Moderator
Speakers
Coordinators
Break
Recharge & Reconvene!
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Treat yourself to a relaxing lunch and get ready for an afternoon of brilliance!
Session 3
Use and Misuse of Media in Cancer Control Efforts
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
This session will explore the power and pitfalls of media in a free society, particularly in the context of cancer control. It will address how we can ensure that both traditional media (print and electronic) and modern social media platforms disseminate accurate, evidence-based information rather than myths or misinformation. The session will also delve into the challenges posed by alternative therapies promoted through media and discuss strategies to manage their impact on cancer care.
Moderator
Speakers
Coordinators
Session 4
The SWOT of Pharmaceuticals in Cancer Care
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
This session will explore the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) of the cancer pharmaceutical landscape in India. It will highlight the critical role of the pharma industry in enhancing cancer care, while also addressing the challenges it faces, including regulatory hurdles, accessibility, affordability, and innovation. The discussion aims to identify actionable opportunities to improve patient outcomes through better alignment of industry capabilities with healthcare needs.
Moderator
Speakers
Coordinators
Break
Pause & Process!
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Tea to fuel the final stretch.
Session 5
Access and Affordability of Cancer Care: Payer, Payee, and System Perspectives
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
This session will focus on the complex issue of affordability in cancer care by exploring the perspectives of all key stakeholders — the payer (insurance/government), the payee (patient), and the healthcare system. The discussion will aim to identify barriers, assess existing support mechanisms, and suggest policy-level interventions and systemic reforms needed to make cancer treatment more accessible and financially sustainable for all.
Moderator
Speakers
Coordinators
Session 6
Sensible Policies for Cancer Care
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
This session will highlight the key findings of the AMPOK Kerala Cancer Opinion Survey. Drawing on insights from the survey and discussions held during the conclave, policymakers and stakeholders will deliberate on practical strategies to reduce the cancer burden in Kerala. The focus will be on translating data into action, shaping policy, and implementing region-specific interventions to improve cancer control across the state.
Moderator
Speakers
Coordinators
End of Day
Dine & Dialogue!
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The ideal way to conclude the day with both 'food for thought' and 'food for the body'.
Session 1
Research in Kerala: What is the Missing Link?
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
This session will delve into the current landscape of cancer research in Kerala. It aims to identify the key gaps hindering progress and explore strategies to foster a more robust research ecosystem. How can we build a culture of innovation and collaboration? What infrastructure, policy, or mindset shifts are needed? The discussion will also explore how best practices from global research hubs can be adapted and implemented effectively within Kerala's unique healthcare context.
Moderator

Dr Moni Abraham Kuriakose
Speakers

Dr Saby George

Dr Shaji Kumar

Dr Vidya H Veldore

Dr Aju Mathew

Prof Chandrabhas Narayana
Coordinators

Dr Arun Philip

Dr Lakshmi Haridas
Session 2
Genomics and Precision Medicine in Cancer Care: Unraveling Its Fullest Potential
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
This session will explore the transformative role of genomics and precision medicine in cancer care. It will address the challenges in implementing these advanced technologies, discuss emerging opportunities for individualized treatment strategies, and highlight the immense potential for discovery, clinical application, and reverse translation. How can we move from promise to practice—and ensure equitable access across healthcare systems?
Moderator

Dr Sewanti Limaye
Speakers

Mr Sam Santhosh

Mr Ramesh Hariharan

Dr Amol Akhade

Dr Suruchi Aggarwal

Dr Prasanth Ganesan
Coordinators

Dr Akhil Santhosh

Dr Nikhil Haridas
Break
Coffee Break
11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
Enjoy a long coffee break before diving into four insightful scientific sessions with leading oncology experts.
Scientific Session 1
CAR-Ts and Bispecifics: The Next Frontiers of Oncology
11:40 AM - 12:00 PM
This session will explore the groundbreaking potential of CAR-T cell therapies and bispecific antibodies, highlighting their role in revolutionising oncology treatment strategies.
Speakers

Dr Shaji Kumar
Scientific Session 2
Antibody Drug Conjugates Gamechangers in Oncology
12:00 PM - 12:20 PM
This session will delve into antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), highlighting their ability to deliver potent anti-cancer agents directly to tumor cells, and their evolving role in cancer therapy.
Speakers

Dr Saby George
Scientific Session 3
The Future in Radiation Oncology: Innovations in Particles and Delivery
12:20 PM - 12:40 PM
An insightful look at the future of radiation oncology, highlighting the latest developments in particle therapy and delivery methods that are transforming cancer care.
Speakers

Dr Rakesh Jalali
Scientific Session 4
Surgical Oncology in the AI Era
12:40 PM - 01:00 PM
This presentation will focus on how AI is being integrated into surgical oncology practices, from diagnosis and planning to robotic-assisted surgery and post-operative care.
Speakers

Dr Shailesh V Shrikande
Conclusion
The Grand Finale Feast!
1:30 PM
Enjoy a final networking opportunity over a grand lunch, marking the successful conclusion of the conclave. Share your key takeaways and bid adieu with good company and great food.