A high-level delegation of cancer researchers from Germany and India met with Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan on 19 February, at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, to discuss the latest advancements in cancer research and the potential for Indo-German collaboration in the field.
Led by Prof. Dr. Andreas Trumpp, a leading expert in stem cell and cancer research, the delegation emphasized the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in precision oncology and the need to make cutting-edge cancer treatments more accessible in India.
Advancing Indo-German Cancer Research
Prof. Dr. Andreas Trumpp, Managing Director of the Division of Stem Cells and Cancer at the German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ) and Co-Founder of Genavinta Health, briefed the Governor on the Indo-German Project on Cancer Research. He highlighted key breakthroughs in the field and how they could benefit patients, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.
The delegation underscored the importance of leveraging AI to develop precision oncology solutions tailored to India’s healthcare landscape.
Welcoming the delegation, Governor Radhakrishnan stressed the importance of strengthening Indo-German partnerships in cancer care. He acknowledged that cancer affects patients not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. The Governor assured the researchers of full support from the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) in fostering scientific collaboration.
Environmental Pollution a Key Contributor to Cancer Burden
Addressing the rising cancer cases in India, Dr. Trumpp pointed out that the country’s growing ageing population would lead to an increase in cancer patients. He emphasized that while tobacco use remains a major cause, environmental pollution, toxins, obesity, and alcohol consumption are also significant contributors. “Prevention efforts and early diagnosis can play a crucial role in reducing the cancer burden,” he said.
Dr. Sewanti Limaye, Director of Medical & Precision Oncology at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, highlighted how precision oncology can enhance treatment effectiveness while minimizing side effects. She stressed the importance of adopting advanced diagnostic tools to ensure better patient outcomes.
Need to Reduce the Cost of Cancer Treatment
Renowned cancer surgeon Dr. Ashok Mehta emphasized that India is at a pivotal stage in integrating cutting-edge technology into cancer treatment. He noted that India is rapidly moving towards achieving the same level of cancer care available in Western countries. However, he pointed out the high cost of treatment, which can range from ₹30-40 lakh, and underscored the urgent need to make it more affordable.
Also present at the meeting were Dr. Jennifer Wischhusen, a senior scientist specializing in breast and ovarian cancer research at DKFZ, Dr. Shubhankar Sood, Co-Founder of Genavinta Health, and Heidi Trumpp, a physiotherapist.
Strengthening Indo-German Healthcare Collaboration
The meeting highlighted the growing interest in Indo-German cooperation in medical research and innovation. With the increasing cancer burden in India, experts believe that partnerships with Germany could accelerate advancements in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately benefiting millions of patients.
