Early detection, personalised care key to better cancer care: Experts

Lucknow: With breast cancer cases on the rise, experts have stressed early detection, personalised treatment and a multidisciplinary approach to improve survival outcomes and quality of life.This was discussed during the ongoing SGPGIMS Breast Course 2026, where the second day of deliberations saw robust participation and focused sessions on early and locally advanced breast cancer. Specialists from across the country highlighted that advances in diagnosis and therapy are enabling a shift towards less invasive surgeries in select patients without compromising effectiveness. They underlined that timely screening, awareness and coordinated care involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and pathologists are crucial in tackling the disease burden. Experts deliberated on tailoring treatment plans, noting that a "one-size-fits-all" approach is being replaced by precision-based strategies. The meet also emphasised the importance of strengthening the entire continuum of care. A nursing workshop highlighted the role of trained nursing staff in perioperative care, chemotherapy support, rehabilitation and long-term survivorship, which experts said was vital for holistic patient management. Over 60 research posters presented by students and trainees were presented during the event. Case-based sessions integrating imaging and pathology further reinforced evidence-based clinical decision-making, while discussions on benign breast diseases broadened the scope beyond cancer care. A specialised session on "Mastology for Gynaecologists" drew attention to the role of primary care and frontline clinicians in early detection and referral. The event is being held alongside the midterm conference of the Indian Association of Endocrine Surgeons, which featured hands-on training and expert discussions on thyroid disorders and minimally invasive endocrine procedures. The conference will conclude on Sunday with sessions on advanced surgical techniques, metastatic breast cancer and disease patterns in younger and high-risk populations.