India Hosts Cancer Experts from BIMSTEC at National Cancer Grid Meeting in Mumbai
From November 6 to 8, India welcomed senior cancer physicians and policymakers from the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) countries to the annual meeting of the National Cancer Grid (NCG) at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. The NCG is a collaborative network that includes over 360 cancer centers, research institutes, patient groups, and professional societies in India, along with 15 other countries.
The meeting aimed to introduce participants to the NCG’s activities and provide a first-hand experience of cancer control practices. The agenda covered several NCG initiatives and featured brainstorming sessions to discuss future projects. Key topics included participation in Virtual Tumor Boards, workforce development, support for cancer registries, and the twinning of cancer centers across regions.
This initiative is expected to enhance BIMSTEC cooperation in health by expanding the reach of cancer control activities in the region, thereby strengthening the broader BIMSTEC partnership.
Doubts Revealed
BIMSTEC -: BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. It is a group of countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia that work together on various issues like trade, technology, and health.
National Cancer Grid -: The National Cancer Grid (NCG) is a network of cancer centers, research institutes, and patient groups in India. It aims to improve cancer care by sharing knowledge and resources among its members.
Tata Memorial Hospital -: Tata Memorial Hospital is a famous hospital in Mumbai, India, known for treating cancer patients. It is one of the leading cancer treatment and research centers in the country.
Virtual Tumor Boards -: Virtual Tumor Boards are online meetings where doctors discuss cancer cases to decide the best treatment plans. This helps doctors from different places to work together and share their expertise.
Cancer registries -: Cancer registries are databases that collect information about cancer cases. They help researchers and doctors understand how common cancer is and how it affects different populations.