HBCH & RC Visakhapatnam Marks 12th Foundation Day, Launches Cancer Support Group and 4th Cancer Congress

Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (HBCH & RC), Visakhapatnam, a unit of the Tata Memorial Centre, celebrated its 12th Foundation Day with the launch of a cancer survivor support initiative, recognition of survivors, and a scientific conference on advances in cancer care.

The hospital launched “PRERANA – Inspiring Hope, Celebrating Life”, a monthly Cancer Survivor Support Group Programme aimed at providing emotional support and fostering interaction among survivors, patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The inaugural session featured survivor testimonies, specialist-led interactive sessions, and a felicitation programme. Twelve cancer survivors and around 60 patients participated. Nutrition kits sponsored by Sanjeevani NGO were distributed on the occasion.

Addressing the event, Dr. Umesh Mahantshetty, Director of HBCH & RC underscored the importance of holistic cancer care, stressing that rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and survivorship services should complement medical treatment.

At the Foundation Day function, chief guest Ayaskanta Jena, Head Project, NTPC Simhadri,  lauded the hospital’s contribution to cancer care in eastern India and highlighted upcoming CSR support from NTPC, including a 3-MW solar power plant and a robotic surgery facility.

HBCH & RC also hosted its fourth Annual Cancer Congress, focusing on thoracic and gastrointestinal cancers. Scientific sessions covered emerging technologies and treatment approaches, including MR-guided radiotherapy, robotic and minimally invasive surgery, interventional radiology, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. The Hospital Oration was delivered by Dr. Shailesh V. Shrikhande.

The congress was inaugurated by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and drew around 130 delegates, including faculty members, postgraduate students, and senior residents from Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, and West Bengal.