Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes, are the leading cause of death worldwide. Globally, there were an estimated 20 million new cases of cancer and 9.7 million deaths from cancer in 2022. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the cancer burden will increase by about 77% by 2050, further straining health systems, people and communities.
Recently, Apollo Cancer Centres has the AI-Precision Oncology Centre (AI-PoC) which can revolutionise cancer care in India. In an interview with Financial Express.com, Dinesh Madhavan, President, Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Limited talked about the technological advancements in cancer treatment, role of AI-Precision Oncology Centre (AI-PoC), challenges among others. Excerpts:
What is the status of Cancer in India? How Cancer Care and Treatment advanced in the country?
The projected number of cancer cases in India is expected to rise to 15.7 lakh in 2025, reflecting a significant increase in cancer burden. The rise in cancer incidence underscores the urgent need for comprehensive approaches to prevention, early detection, and treatment. Despite the challenges, advancements in cancer care and treatment have been remarkable, with the establishment of state-of-the-art oncology centers equipped with cutting-edge technology. The development and implementation of advanced treatment modalities, such as precision medicine and targeted therapies, have been pivotal in improving patient outcomes. Collaboration between public and private healthcare sectors, as well as international partnerships, has played a crucial role in advancing cancer care in India. The rise in cancer burden necessitates strategic investments in research, development, and training programs to foster innovation and ensure the delivery of state-of-the-art cancer care across the country. India’s focus on personalized and multidisciplinary approaches underscores its commitment to addressing the evolving needs of cancer patients and further advancing cancer care in the country.
How technological advancements and improve cancer care and treatment in India?
Key advancements centre on immune checkpoint inhibitors, heralding a transformative era in oncology through immunotherapy. This novel approach leverages the body’s immune system to combat cancer cells. Moreover, developments in CAR T cell therapy and Nanotherapy exhibit promising potential, offering tailored treatments and potentially reshaping the landscape of cancer care. CAR T cell therapies in India, currently approved for B cell lymphomas, are set for rapid expansion within 12 to 16 months. Ongoing clinical trials in cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi project a broader landscape. With India’s vast population, a collaborative approach integrating private healthcare, government, and charities will likely introduce diverse CAR T therapy options.
Anticipated CDSCO approvals will extend these therapies beyond B cell lymphomas, offering comprehensive treatments for diverse blood cancers nationwide. Advanced technologies such as AI-powered imaging and liquid biopsies have significantly enhanced early detection, improving the accuracy of diagnosing cancer at an early stage. Imaging technology developments have paved the way for more precise and effective treatment strategies, optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing the impact of treatment. We also have International collaborations that would serve as a catalyst for advancing oncology research and treatment in India by fostering knowledge exchange and technological advancements. Apollo’s alliances, like the Oncology Alliance and Apollo Practicum, display the value of global participation, enabling Indian practitioners to interact with international experts and implement advanced treatments, such as Proton Beam Therapy, Bone Marrow Transplants, and Precision Oncology. These partnerships offer exposure to diverse medical experiences, technological innovations, and clinical trials, effectively closing the gap and enhancing India’s expertise in combating cancer.
What is AI-Precision Oncology Centre (AI-PoC)? What can be its role in the cancer landscape in India?
The AI-Precision Oncology Centre (AI-PoC) at Apollo Cancer Centres is designed with a patient-centric approach, providing personalized identification of eligible patients for targeted therapy and immunotherapy as part of the diagnosis and treatment planning process. The groundbreaking Centre ensures accurate diagnosis, real-time insights, cancer risk assessment, treatment protocol, and a continuum of care. These advanced capabilities are instrumental in shaping the dynamics of cancer care in India. With the implementation of AI technology, Apollo Cancer Centres enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of cancer diagnosis and treatment, bridging essential policy and governance gaps within the Indian cancer scenario.
It offers specialized medical services that facilitate accurate diagnosis, real-time insights, and tailored treatment protocols, significantly improving cancer care outcomes in India. Through its comprehensive and specialized approach, the AI-PoC plays a vital role in leveraging AI technology for precise cancer diagnosis, marking a significant advancement in the Indian cancer care landscape. It is dedicated to reshaping the horizons of oncology in India by opening up new and important opportunities through its advanced capabilities in cancer care. Harnessing artificial intelligence in Oncology facilitates the discovery of novel patient groups, aligning with India’s objective to emerge as a global medical hub for affordable cancer care. By incorporating AI into cancer research and treatment, the AI-PoC aims to address major gaps in the cancer landscape in India, fostering improved patient outcomes and the overall progress of cancer care in the nation.
What is the role of artificial intelligence in cancer care? What more needs to be done to improve the availability of these advancements?
Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a crucial role in cancer care by enhancing early detection through analysis of patients’ medical history and test results. For example, AI algorithms can analyze genetic data to identify mutations associated with increased cancer risk. AI also supports precision medicine by accurately identifying patients eligible for targeted therapy and immunotherapy, thereby, improving treatment outcomes and reducing unnecessary side effects. The application of AI in cancer care includes providing clinical decision support for cancer diagnosis and screening, thereby ensuring more accurate and timely diagnoses. Meanwhile, AI augments healthcare by assisting clinicians in decision-making, enhancing patient engagement, and optimizing treatment outcomes. AI-driven algorithms aid in patient reminders, drug dosages, surgical procedures, and follow-ups based on global data and experiences.
To further improve the availability of these advancements, there is a need to invest in AI technology infrastructure and training for healthcare professionals. This will ensure widespread adoption and utilization of AI tools in different healthcare settings throughout India. Educating both healthcare professionals and the public about the benefits and limitations of AI in cancer care is vital to build trust and encourage widespread usage. This will help in overcoming any resistance to adopting AI tools and technologies. Continuous research and development in AI technologies tailored for cancer care are essential to ensure that the tools and applications remain relevant, effective, and adaptable to the evolving landscape of cancer treatment and research.
What are some of the key challenges that cancer patients are facing in India?
India grapples with substantial challenges in oncology research across cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The foremost hurdle lies in the widespread under insurance, where most individuals possess insufficient coverage for tertiary conditions. Additionally, the absence of a comprehensive national policy for preventable cancers like HPV vaccination hampers progress. The lack of a collaborative approach between government and private entities, and limited clinical trial emphasis further impede advancements in oncology, hindering optimal cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatments in the country. Infrastructure issues and the vast rural population pose challenges in accessing major cancer centers, leading to disparities in care and treatment outcomes. The push for “Make in India” fosters local production but must align with augmenting medical oncology and surgical oncology seats, diversifying programs, and establishing accessible neighborhood cancer centres. Without cancer being a notifiable disease, addressing these challenges remains arduous.
Anything else that you would like to add?
The AI-Precision Oncology Centre at Apollo Cancer Centres represents a significant leap in personalized oncology care, with India’s first AI-driven Precision Oncology Centre (POC) launched in Bengaluru. With a strong commitment to personalized oncology care through AI, the centre marks a pivotal advancement, ensuring a brighter future for cancer patients and the overall landscape of oncology care in India. India’s move towards becoming a global medical hub for affordable cancer care is further supported by the invaluable contributions of the AI-Precision Oncology Centre, ensuring new patient identification and improved care pathways in the fight against cancer. The investment in AI technology for precision oncology underscores Apollo Hospitals’ commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for the benefit of patients, healthcare professionals, and the broader community, charting a new course in the fight against cancer.
