The Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India (HNCII) — the nation’s only dedicated super-specialty hospital for head and neck cancers — celebrated its second Foundation Day with an impactful Oncology Conclave. The event not only highlighted clinical milestones but also drew attention to India’s disproportionate cancer burden compared to developed nations. On this landmark occasion, HNCII also launched a new book documenting the evolution and global significance of the submental flap in oral cancer reconstruction.
Rising Cancer Burden in India
Head and neck cancers represent 27–30% of all cancers in India, compared to less than 5% in the United States and Western Europe. Each year, the country records more than 200,000 new cases, most of which are linked to tobacco use. Alarmingly, nearly 60% of patients receive their diagnosis at advanced stages, severely limiting treatment options.
Prevention and early detection remain India’s most urgent priorities. By shifting diagnosis to Stage 1 or 2, survival rates can improve dramatically. Increased awareness, widespread screening programs, and lifestyle changes are essential to curb this growing epidemic. This disparity also underlines the pressing need for advanced research centres, dedicated treatment institutes, and stronger national strategies.
HNCII’s Milestones in Two Years
Since its inception, HNCII has demonstrated measurable impact in bridging the care gap:
- 53,013 OPD consultations, including 30,742 free consultations
- 14,447 patient admissions and 6,952 surgeries
- 6,942 chemotherapy sessions and 1,142 radiation therapies
- 1,690 outreach cancer screenings, reaching underserved communities
These achievements reflect HNCII’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality oncology care on par with global standards.
Insights from Global Experts
As per the press release, the Conclave brought together distinguished experts from across the world. Prof. Ashok R. Shaha, Head & Neck Surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, delivered the prestigious HNCII Oration on “Completion Thyroidectomy Circa 1992.” Meanwhile, Prof. Farokh E. Udwadia of Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, offered invaluable reflections from his critical care journey.
Leadership Perspectives
Dr. Sultan Pradhan, Founder & Chairman, HNCII, emphasized:
“India is facing a silent cancer epidemic. While advanced surgical innovations like the submental flap have transformed outcomes, the need of the hour is clear — stronger prevention campaigns, early detection programs, and more specialized centres like HNCII to tackle this enormous public health challenge.”
Prof. Ashok R. Shaha, MSKCC, New York, reinforced the institute’s impact, stating:
“In just two years, the Head and Neck Cancer Institute of India has proven that it can deliver state-of-the-art, global-standard cancer treatment. This achievement reflects capability to combine world-class care with academic excellence.”
A Call to Action
India’s rising cancer burden highlights the urgent need for nationwide prevention programs, tobacco control measures, regular screenings, and strong research collaborations. HNCII’s Foundation Day reaffirmed its mission to go beyond being a hospital — serving as a hub of research, training, and innovation dedicated to reducing cancer mortality and improving survival outcomes across the country.