Srinagar, Oct 5: The Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir (KU), on Monday inaugurated the Third J&K International Conference on Breast and Allied Cancers at the University’s Main Campus, bringing together leading experts, clinicians, researchers and young scholars to deliberate on emerging advances in cancer research and care.
The three-day conference seeks to bridge the gap between fundamental cancer research and clinical application, with discussions focusing on precision oncology, cancer genomics, immunotherapy, artificial intelligence in oncology, early detection, biomarkers, drug discovery and personalised cancer care.
Organised in collaboration with the Breast Cancer Patients Benefit Foundation, the conference is sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Ministry of Science & Technology, JKST&IC and J&K Bank.
The event has brought together oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, molecular biologists, public health experts, data scientists and researchers from different institutions. Delegates are participating both in person and online, facilitating wider scientific exchange and collaboration.
Speaking at the inaugural session, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration between basic research and clinical practice in the fight against cancer. She stressed the importance of early detection, scientific innovation and accessible cancer care, particularly in the context of breast cancer.
“Research must ultimately translate into better prevention, early detection and care for patients,” she said.
Vice-Chancellor, Gautam Buddha University, Prof. Rana Pratap, highlighted the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex health challenges. He called for stronger linkages among universities, research institutions, clinicians and other stakeholders to accelerate progress in cancer research and treatment.
Senior Consultant and Oncologist Dr Sameer Kaul underlined the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment in improving cancer outcomes. He also stressed greater public awareness, regular screening and stronger integration of scientific research with clinical practice.
Dean Research KU Prof. Bashir Ahmad Ganaie and Prof Nazir Dar of the Department of Biochemistry also shared their views on the occasion.
An abstract book containing research contributions presented at the conference was released during the inaugural session.
Earlier, Organising Secretary Dr Manzoor Ahmad Mir, faculty member in the Department of Bioresources, welcomed the participants and said the conference would provide an important platform for scientific exchange, knowledge sharing and collaboration in breast and allied cancer research.
Head, Department of Bioresources, Dr Riaz-ul-Rehman, proposed the vote of thanks.
The conference features a breast cancer screening camp, along with paper presentations, panel discussions, oral and poster presentations and plenary lectures by internationally renowned scientists, clinicians and healthcare leaders.
Students and researchers from colleges and institutions across J&K are also participating, providing young scholars an opportunity to interact with experts and gain exposure to emerging developments in cancer research and treatment.
