Mumbai, August 28th, 2025: Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India (HNCII) — the country’s only dedicated super-specialty hospital for head and neck cancers — marked its 2nd Foundation Day with an inspiring Oncology Conclave that not only celebrated clinical milestones but also spotlighted India’s disproportionate cancer burden compared to developed nations. The landmark occasion was marked by the launch of HNCII’s new book on the evolution and global relevance of the submental flap in oral cancer reconstruction.
Rising Cancer Burden in India
Head and neck cancers account for 27-30% of all cancers in India, a stark contrast to less than 5% in the United States and Western Europe. India records over 200,000 new head and neck cancer cases annually, largely linked to tobacco consumption. The real challenge is that almost 60% of these cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Our priority must be prevention and early detection through awareness, screening, and lifestyle changes. If we can shift diagnosis to Stage 1 or 2, survival outcomes will improve dramatically, and we can truly reduce the cancer burden in the country
This disparity underscores the urgent need for advanced research centres, dedicated treatment institutes, and stronger national strategies to address prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care.
HNCII’s Achievements
Since inception, HNCII has:
- Conducted 53,013 OPD consultations, including 30,742 free consultations
- Treated 14,447 admissions and performed 6,952 surgeries
- Delivered 6,942 chemotherapy sessions and 1,142 radiation therapies
- Undertaken 1,690 outreach cancer screenings, extending services to underserved communities
These milestones demonstrate the institute’s commitment to bridging the gap between India and developed countries in accessible, high-quality oncology care.
Voices from the Conclave
The Conclave featured leading global experts, including Prof. Ashok R. Shaha, Head & Neck Surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, who delivered the HNCII Oration on “Completion Thyroidectomy Circa 1992”, and Prof. Farokh E. Udwadia, Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, who shared reflections from his critical care journey.
Dr. Sultan Pradhan, Founder & Chairman, HNCII, said: “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, added: “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.”
Call to Action
India’s rising cancer numbers highlight the necessity of nationwide prevention programs, tobacco control, screening initiatives, and research collaborations. HNCII’s Foundation Day reaffirmed its mission to serve not just as a hospital, but as a hub of research, training, and innovation — dedicated to reducing India’s cancer mortality and improving survival rates.