The 23rd Annual International Conference, RGCON 2025, organized by the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC), underscored the critical importance of preventive measures and innovative treatment approaches in combating gynecological cancers. Themed “Gynecological Cancers: Innovating, Integrating, and Upgrading,” the conference highlighted the urgent need for advancements in research, technology, and collaborative efforts to address the growing burden of gynecological cancers.
RGCON 2025 brought together over 1,200 faculty members and delegates from across the globe to deliberate on cutting-edge advancements in cancer treatment. The conference focused on the latest innovations in gynecological cancer care, including new technologies, advance surgical techniques, and immunotherapy, aimed at improving patient survival rates and quality of life.
Mr. Rakesh Chopra, Chairman, RGCIRC, highlighted the growing crisis of gynecological cancers accounting for 19% of global female cancers, with India facing particularly alarming trends. “Cervical cancer alone causes 77,000 annual deaths here, while ovarian cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages, maintains a grim <50% survival rate,” he noted, stressing that “most gynecological cancers are preventable through HPV vaccination and screening or are treatable, if detected early”. Warning of a projected 55% surge by 2040, Chopra called for urgent action against awareness gaps and healthcare barriers, even as RGCIRC leads the charge – handling 7,450 cases and performing 650 gynecologic cancer surgeries annually through its specialized department.
Mr. D.S. Negi, CEO, RGCIRC, highlighted the institute’s pioneering use of cutting-edge technologies for cancer diagnosis and treatment. “RGCIRC’s forte has always been leveraging advanced technologies, such as the Da Vinci Robot and Cyber-Knife, to deliver world-class cancer care. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare is set to revolutionize cancer management, and RGCIRC has already initiated a comprehensive plan to harness AI for process improvements and enhanced patient care,” he stated.
The conference was graced by Dr. Denis Querleu, Honorary Professor of Oncology at the University of Toulouse, France, as the Chief Guest. Dr. Querleu lauded RGCIRC’s contributions to cancer care and its role in advancing global oncology research.
Professor G.K. Rath, former Director of the National Cancer Institute (NCI), former Chief of BRIRCH, and former Head of Radiation Oncology at AIIMS, Delhi, graced the event as the Guest of Honor. He emphasized India’s unique position as a hub for cancer research, particularly in studying the epidemiology of cancer and HPV-related cancers, which are preventable. “India’s diverse cancer landscape provides unparalleled opportunities to understand and address the challenges posed by this disease. Remarkably, 60% of cancers in India, including tobacco and infection-related cancers like cervical cancer, are preventable. As a developing country with a vast population, India offers invaluable insights into cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment, making it an essential destination for global research on cancer control,” he said.
Dr. Sudhir Rawal, Medical Director and Chief of Genito-Uro Oncology Services at RGCIRC, who, as a visionary leader and clinical pioneer, has been instrumental in shaping the institute’s legacy since its foundation in 1996, hailed RGCON 2025 as a groundbreaking platform that is revolutionizing gynecological cancer care through cutting-edge research, innovation and global collaboration. “The transformative progress in gynecologic oncology is a testament to the power of collective excellence and the unwavering dedication of our faculty and team. It is this collaboration that unlocks the future of medicine,” he remarked.
Dr. AK Dewan, Director of Surgical Oncology and one of RGCIRC’s founding pillars since 1996, reflected on the institute’s transformative journey in his address. With warmth and insight, he recounted how RGCIRC pioneered various sub-specializations in surgical oncology, including the development of its sub-speciality of Gynecologic Oncology —a field he described as “where technical challenge meets profound impact on women’s lives.” He particularly highlighted the institute’s forward-thinking adoption of robotic surgery, recalling how the Governing Council’s swift approval in 2011 enabled RGCIRC to acquire its first Da Vinci system, positioning it among India’s earliest adopters.
Dr. Vandana Jain, Senior Consultant & Head of Department – Gynecologic Oncology, RGCIRC, and Organising Secretary of RGCON 2025, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the global medical fraternity for their participation. Reflecting on the spirit of the conference, she said, “As we conclude, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, innovation, and shared purpose that defines RGCON 2025. Let us continue to push boundaries, embrace innovation, and strive for excellence in patient care. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and make a meaningful impact on the lives of women worldwide.”
Dr. Jain’s leadership and tireless efforts were instrumental in orchestrating this landmark event. Her vision and dedication ensured that RGCON 2025 not only facilitated collaboration among leading experts but also highlighted the most promising advancements in gynecological cancer treatment and patient care setting new benchmarks for future oncology conferences.
RGCON 2025’s live surgical workshop set new benchmarks in gynecologic oncology, featuring groundbreaking procedures that combined precision with preservation of quality of life. Expert Surgeons from RGCIRC and Renowned specialists from global institutions demonstrated:
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Robotic and Open nerve-sparing radical hysterectomies for cervical cancer, showcasing techniques to preserve autonomic nerves and minimize postoperative morbidity
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Pioneering robotic peritoneal mesometrial resection, with targeted compartmental lymphadenectomy
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India’s indigenous surgical triumph – radical hysterectomy using the MANTRA robotic system, highlighting the nation’s technological prowess in medical robotics
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Robot-assisted video endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy for vulvar cancer, offering minimally invasive solutions for this challenging procedure
These meticulously curated demonstrations not only displayed technical mastery but also emphasized RGCIRC’s commitment to advancing surgical oncology through innovation while prioritizing patient- centric outcomes.
