New Delhi, Mar 6: Apollo Athena, Asia’s first dedicated women’s cancer centre and a unit of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, is advancing the future of breast cancer treatment through a strong focus on precision oncology and evidence-based decision-making. Reinforcing this commitment, the centre will host the Apollo Athena Cancer Conclave 2026, centered on the theme “From Uncertainty to Precision in Breast Cancer Management.” The conclave aims to shift the approach to treatment from fear-driven decisions and overtreatment to precise, patient-centric care that prioritizes both survival and quality of life.
Apollo Athena was established with a clear vision—to move breast cancer care in India from uncertainty toward clarity and precision. The conclave will bring together leading breast surgeons, medical oncologists, reconstruction specialists, radiologists, and international experts to create a collaborative platform where global clinical evidence meets the realities of Indian healthcare. The discussions will focus on advancing clinical decision-making while incorporating the latest breakthroughs in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The urgency of such initiatives is underscored by the rising incidence of breast cancer among Indian women. According to estimates from 2020, breast cancer accounts for approximately 27% of all cancers among women in India and nearly 10% of cancer-related deaths. Notably, nearly one in four patients is under the age of 40, while around 30% of women are diagnosed with aggressive triple-negative breast cancer. By 2030, the economic burden associated with breast cancer is expected to rise to USD 13.96 billion, highlighting the growing need for faster, more precise, and evidence-based care.
Despite advances in oncology, significant treatment gaps remain. In many Western countries, nearly 70% of early-stage breast cancer patients undergo breast-conserving surgery, while in India the number remains below 25%. As a result, many women still undergo full mastectomy or extensive axillary clearance even when less invasive alternatives may be suitable. Modern oncology has evolved beyond simply extending survival; it now prioritizes preserving quality of life alongside effective cancer control. Addressing this gap is one of the central objectives of the Apollo Athena Conclave.
Recent advances in high-resolution imaging, tumor cartography, neoadjuvant systemic therapies, and precision oncoplastic reconstruction techniques are transforming breast cancer management. At the conclave, experts will explore topics such as axillary de-escalation strategies, optimal sequencing of systemic therapies in metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, and the evolving transition from breast conservation to advanced reconstruction techniques. Additional discussions will focus on imaging-based decisions in multifocal disease, precision tumor mapping, integration of imaging and pathology, and the growing importance of post-cancer care.
Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, said,
“At Apollo Athena Women’s Cancer Centre, our primary goal is to accelerate the adoption of evidence-based precision oncology practices in India. By integrating global expertise with multidisciplinary collaboration, we aim to ensure that every woman benefits from treatment decisions grounded in science, innovation, and long-term well-being.”
Dr. Geeta Kadayaprath, Principal Lead – Breast Surgical Oncology at Apollo Athena Women’s Cancer Centre, added,
“Breast cancer management is entering an era of precision where treatment decisions are guided by evidence rather than fear. With advances in imaging, tumor mapping, and oncoplastic expertise, we can deliver personalized treatment strategies that maintain quality of life while ensuring oncological safety.”
Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa, Principal Lead – Medical and Precision Oncology, noted,
“The era of a single treatment approach for all patients is over. With deeper insights into tumor biology and the increasing role of targeted therapies, systemic treatments can now be tailored to each patient’s profile. The future of breast cancer care lies in precision—and that future is already here.”
Dr. Jyoti Arora, Principal Lead – Women’s Imaging, highlighted the role of advanced technology in modern cancer care.
“AI-powered imaging technologies are not only improving diagnosis but also redefining treatment approaches. Techniques such as cryoablation allow us to freeze and destroy tumors in select patients without traditional surgery, while precision tumor mapping helps offer less invasive surgical options without compromising outcomes.”
International experts participating in pre-conclave discussions emphasized that global evidence increasingly supports carefully planned surgical de-escalation, which does not compromise cancer control while significantly improving patient outcomes and recovery. Collaborative platforms like the Apollo Athena Conclave play a vital role in translating such evidence into routine clinical practice across India.