AROICON-The 45th Annual National Conference of the Association of Radiation Oncologists of India held in Kolkata

 

Kolkata : AROICON (the 45th Annual National Conference of the Association of Radiation Oncologists of India) was held between 27-30 November 2025 at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, Kolkata. It was one of the largest oncology conferences in Asia (second only to the combined Indian Cancer Congress held every 4 years). It was attended by more than 1800 delegates and faculty, from India & abroad, including UK/US/Canada/Europe/ ASEAN countries.

 

It served as a robust academic platform featuring scientific sessions, keynote lectures, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and case-based learning modules focusing on cutting-edge technologies such as precision radiotherapy techniques, personalised medicine and AI. There was also a focus on the varied human angles unique to the domain of oncology, including survivorship & quality of life, palliative care & entrepreneurship.

 

According to Dr Suman Mallik, Organising Chairman, AROICON 2025, radiation oncology  plays a pivotal role in cancer management, with more than 50% of cancer patients requiring radiotherapy at some point of their cancer journey, as sole curative treatment, as pre-or post-operative treatment or even as palliative treatment. Unfortunately, there are obstacles in patient access to high quality radiotherapy, with a recent UK-based survey reporting that only around 35% of eligible patients could have the treatment and less than 40% could only avail of it within the targeted 2-month waiting time.

 

In the opinion of Dr Jyotirup Goswami, Organising Secretary, AROICON 2025, lack of funding for modern equipment is just one of the stumbling blocks. Existing equipment needs to be maintained as well. The other crucial links in the chain include a trained workforce and a robust referral system. The Indian scenario has its own unique challenges. Going back 1-2 decades, the country lagged behind in both manpower and modern equipment. These gaps have largely been bridged, but patient access and waiting times need to be regulated better across the states and the country overall.

 

AROICON 2025 also showcased an extensive medical exhibition featuring the latest equipment, technologies, and innovations in radiation oncology, providing participants with hands-on exposure to modern treatment solutions. It also enabled participants to gain insights into evolving technologies shaping the future of oncology care.