Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), Gurugram, inaugurated HemeNext 2.0, a two-day international scientific conclave bringing together Indian and global experts to advance blood cancer care. The event focuses on translating scientific breakthroughs into more precise, accessible and affordable treatments for patients across India.
India recorded an estimated 14.6 lakh new cancer cases in 2022, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research–National Cancer Registry Programme (ICMR–NCRP). Lymphoid leukaemia accounted for approximately 29% of cancers among boys and 24% among girls aged 0–14 years, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and sustained access to specialised treatment.
Held on 10–11 October and led by the Fortis Institute of Blood Disorders, HemeNext 2.0 features three parallel scientific programmes covering adult and paediatric haematology, genomics, cellular therapies, transplantation, artificial intelligence (AI) and infectious diseases. The conclave brings together more than 200 faculty members and 400 participants from India, the United Kingdom, the United States and Singapore. Through case discussions, debates and scientific presentations, specialists are sharing clinical experience and research to strengthen blood disorder management.
Experts Emphasise Precision, Affordability and Access
Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director and Chief – Haematology, Haemato-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) at Fortis Hospital Gurugram, and Chairperson of HemeNext 2.0, emphasised the importance of connecting scientific progress with practical patient care. “India’s priority is to ensure that scientific progress reaches patients in time and at a cost they can afford. HemeNext 2.0 connects global research with Indian clinical experience to examine which advances can improve care and what is needed to deliver them safely. The focus is on informed treatment decisions, stronger clinical collaboration, and wider access,” he said.
Precision Diagnostics and Advanced Blood Cancer Treatments
The scientific programme examines next-generation sequencing, rapid genomic testing, multi-omics and measurable residual disease (MRD), which helps detect small amounts of cancer that may remain during or after treatment. These technologies can help clinicians refine diagnoses, assess disease risk and select appropriate treatments. However, their effective use also depends on timely testing, accurate interpretation and affordability. Dr. Shrinidhi Nathany, Consultant – Molecular Haematology and Oncology at Fortis Hospital Gurugram and Organising Secretary of HemeNext 2.0, highlighted the role of genomics in personalised treatment.
“Patients with the same broad diagnosis can have different disease biology and treatment needs. Genomics helps us understand those differences. Its value lies in selecting the right test and translating the result into a useful clinical decision. Making appropriate testing timely, reliable, and accessible is essential to advancing precision care in India,” she said.
In addition, the programme explores chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, which modifies a patient’s immune cells to recognise and attack cancer cells. Discussions will also cover targeted therapies and bone marrow transplantation, with experts examining patient selection, treatment timing, safety monitoring, infrastructure requirements and treatment costs.
Paediatric Haematology and Long-Term Patient Care
The paediatric programme addresses childhood leukaemia, inherited bone marrow failure, thalassaemia, sickle cell disease and stem cell transplantation. It also examines survivorship, immune health, fertility preservation and the long-term effects of treatment. Furthermore, sessions on donor registries and public-private partnerships will explore ways to improve access to specialised treatment for children with blood disorders. Dr. Vikas Dua, Principal Director and Head – Paediatric Haematology, Haemato-Oncology and BMT at Fortis Hospital Gurugram, and Chairperson of HemeNext 2.0, stressed the importance of comprehensive care for young patients.
“For children with blood cancers and inherited disorders, care must protect both life and the years ahead. Timely referral, support to complete treatment and long-term follow-up are equally important. Sharing international evidence and Indian experience can help strengthen care from diagnosis to survivorship and identify partnerships that enable more children to access treatment,” he said.
Infectious Disease Management in Immunocompromised Patients
The conclave also features a dedicated infectious diseases programme addressing sepsis, fungal infections, antimicrobial resistance, viral infection prevention and immunisation. These topics are particularly important for patients whose immune systems become weakened by blood disorders or intensive treatments such as chemotherapy and transplantation. Better infection prevention and management can help strengthen supportive care throughout the treatment journey.
AI, Healthcare Innovation and Future Medical Expertise
HemeNext 2.0 examines the potential applications of AI in diagnostics, genomics and medical research. A case-based “AI vs Human” debate will explore the role of technology in clinical decision-making, with particular attention to scientific validation, data protection and clinician oversight. The conclave will also feature a Start-up Lounge connecting clinicians with healthcare innovators. Meanwhile, scientific abstract presentations and The Heme Arena, an inter-institutional quiz for resident doctors, will encourage research exchange and help develop the next generation of specialists.
Advancing the Future of Blood Cancer Care in India
By bringing international expertise together with Indian clinical experience, HemeNext 2.0 aims to strengthen collaboration across haematology, oncology, diagnostics and advanced therapies. As per the press release, the conclave underscores the importance of translating advances in blood science into timely, evidence-based and affordable treatment, helping more patients access specialised care while supporting better clinical outcomes across India.