NT BUZZ
Renowned Gurugram-based oncologist Dr. Prashant Bhangui, delivered a lecture on ‘Dawn of a new Era: Transplant oncology revolutionising Liver Cancer treatment’ at the 10th annual lecture organised by The Goa Cancer Society (GCS) at Caculo Mall, Panaji. It stood as a testament to The Goa Cancer Society’s ongoing dedication to comprehensive cancer care, patient welfare, research, and community service.
The lecture was attended by secretary of GCS Dr. Mahesh Naik, president of the GCS Shrinivas Dempo, executive members Pallavi Dempo, Dr. Pramod Salgaoncar, Andrea Maganlal, Dr. Suresh Shetye, Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Dr. Deepak Murthy, Dr. Sitakant Ghanekar.
In his address, Shrinivas Dempomentioned late Dr. Sharad Vaidya for his contributions to cancer care in Goa, in whose honor the Dr. Sharad Vaidya Cancer Screening Programme had been initiated. He also highlighted the financial assistance schemes available for patients seeking treatment at Manipal Hospital and extended assistance to patients at Goa Medical College (GMC) and other healthcare institutions, including monthly support to patients undergoing treatment at IMA Ponda Charitable Trust’s Dilasa, centre for terminally ill patients, research projects & free clinical counselling at GCS Panaji office, Manipal Hospital & Rugnashary, Bambolim.
In his lecture, Bhangui specifically spoke about ‘Resection’ (removing part of the liver with the tumour) and ‘Transplant’ (replacing the entire liver).
He said that liver transplant is not just for early-stage cancer anymore. “Medical advances now allow more patients, including those with advanced cancer, to be considered for transplant, provided the cancer hasn’t spread extensively or invaded major blood vessels,” adding that transplant offers better long-term outcomes in suitable patients compared to resection, with lower chances of cancer recurrence. He emphasised on careful patient selection based on tumour size, spread, and biology.
He also highlighted a shift toward personalised treatment, tailored therapy to each patient rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. “Liver transplant is increasingly becoming a powerful, life-extending option, even for some advanced liver cancer patients when chosen carefully,” Bhangui said.
