Dear Friends,
With your mandate, I stand here as the President of the Association of Radiation Oncologists of India (AROI), one of the largest oncology societies in the country, with a membership of 5,181 dedicated professionals. It is a privilege to serve this esteemed organization under the Presidential theme, "The Art and Science of Radiation Oncology for Care and Cure."
Achievements and Initiatives
AROI has set a benchmark by offering 17 different fellowships-more than any other oncology society in the country-to continually enhance the expertise of our members. We also organize a robust suite of programs annually, including:
- Four ICRO teaching programs
- Two Pro-Advance workshops
- Three ESTRO-endorsed programs
- The "Best of ASTRO" program
In addition, this year, we are expanding our ICRO teaching program by incorporating more webinars to make learning accessible to all members. Our journal, JCRT, is indexed in PubMed, showcasing our commitment to advancing research and knowledge dissemination.
Vision and Challenges
However, disparities in cancer care remain a significant concern. High-end technologies are often limited to metropolitan areas, leaving patients in rural regions without access to these advancements. Addressing this inequity is a priority.
Our vision includes:
- Advocating at the government level to establish Departments of Radiation Oncology in all medical colleges.
- Introducing Radiation Oncology into the MBBS curriculum and establishing DM programs.
- Recognizing cancer as a notifiable disease to ensure better tracking and job opportunities for oncologists to meet the rising burden of cancer.
Preparing for the Future
By 2040, the WHO estimates 29.5 million new cancer cases annually, with 16 million cancer-related deaths. To tackle this, we must leverage technology and global collaborations.
We are strengthening ties with international organizations like FARO, ASTRO, ESTRO, and ASCO. Notably, ASCO now provides free membership to oncology professionals from low-resource countries, a testament to our growing global presence.Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a game-changer in oncology. We will form an expert committee to explore how AI can be utilized for better patient care and clinical outcomes.
My journey with AROI spans over two decades, during which I have served in various capacities:
- Secretary, Odisha State Chapter (2000-2006)
- Vice Chairman, ICRO (2006-2008)
- Secretary, ICRO (2008- 2012)
- Vice Chairman, ICRO (2012-2014)
- Secretary, ICRO (2014-2016)
- Chairman, ICRO (2016-2018)
- President, AROI Odisha Chapter (2018-2020)
- President-Elect, AROI (2022-2024)
Today, I am honoured to lead AROI as its President. With your support, constructive criticism, and shared commitment, we will elevate AROI to new heights nationally and internationally.
Thank you, and let us work together for a brighter future.
Long Live AROI.
Jai Jagannath.
Prof (Dr) Surendra Nath Senapati
President
