Kolkata: In a landmark development for oncology in India, the Institute of Breast Diseases, Kolkata (IBDK) hosted the India edition of the globally renowned St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Conference at Taj Taal Kutir, bringing together leading global and Indian experts to deliberate on the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment, research, and equitable access to care.
The St. Gallen Conference is regarded as one of the world’s most influential platforms in breast oncology, where international experts review emerging scientific evidence and develop consensus recommendations that help shape treatment guidelines worldwide.
The Kolkata edition witnessed the participation of more than 10 international faculty members, over 200 national experts, and more than 500 delegates, highlighting the growing strength of India’s oncology ecosystem and its increasing role in global cancer research.
During the conference, experts highlighted the rising burden of breast cancer in India. A nationwide study conducted in 2024 estimated that the incidence of breast cancer in the country has tripled between 1990 and 2023, increasing from 13 cases per 100,000 women in 1990 to 29.4 per 100,000 women in 2023.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of Project Pink Army, a community-driven volunteer movement aimed at strengthening cancer awareness and providing support to patients and families. The initiative builds upon IBDK’s earlier awareness programme Project Pink Alert, which reached more than 1.8 lakh students through one of the world’s largest online cancer awareness webinars, recognised by the Guinness World Records.
Prominent international experts emphasised the importance of collaboration in improving cancer care. Prof. Beat Thürlimann from Switzerland noted that scientific progress in breast cancer must benefit patients everywhere, and platforms like the St. Gallen Conference enable meaningful collaboration between global experts and clinicians working in diverse healthcare systems.
Similarly, Prof. Etienne Brain from Paris highlighted that international cooperation is vital to address regional challenges in cancer care and develop treatment approaches that are both scientifically robust and practically feasible.
Another academic highlight of the conference was the presentation of over 100 scientific abstracts and more than 30 research proposals. Through a competitive grant programme, promising projects received funding support, while five young investigators were selected to present their research at the 2027 St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Conference in Vienna.
The event also hosted the Asian Cancer Consensus Meet, where experts discussed unresolved clinical questions and treatment challenges specific to Asian countries. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to be published in a peer-reviewed medical journal.
Addressing the media, Dr. Soumen Das, Director of the Institute of Breast Diseases, Kolkata, said that bringing the St. Gallen Conference to Kolkata places Indian clinicians and researchers at the centre of global academic dialogue and ensures that Indian data and perspectives contribute to international cancer policy.
Dr. Tanmoy Kumar Mandal, Director of IBDK, added that the initiative goes beyond traditional academic exchange by funding research, supporting young investigators, and strengthening access-based models of cancer care relevant to the region.
With international faculty participation, research funding initiatives, consensus-building discussions, and community engagement under one platform, the conference has positioned Kolkata as an emerging hub for global dialogue in breast oncology, marking an important step toward advancing equitable breast cancer care across India and Asia.
