Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 30: Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangaluru, and KMC Hospital, Attavar, is organizing the KMC Cancer Conclave 2026, a two-day academic conference focusing on gastrointestinal cancers, on January 31 and February 1 at the KMC Marena Sports and Indoor Complex, Attavar, Mangaluru.
Addressing the media, Dr B Unnikrishnan, dean, Kasturba Medical College, Mangaluru, stated that the conclave underscores the institution’s commitment to advancing cancer care through multidisciplinary collaboration and academic excellence. He highlighted the legacy of the KMC Hospital Attavar Oncology Centre, the first cancer unit in Mangaluru city, which has been delivering compassionate cancer care since 1992. The centre offers comprehensive services through radiation oncology, surgical oncology, medical oncology, cancer diagnostics and screening, and palliative care, supported by a trained allied healthcare team. The oncology department is equipped with a state-of-the-art TrueBeam Linear Accelerator, enabling advanced radiation techniques including stereotactic radiotherapy and four-dimensional motion management–based radiation therapy. Patients from Government Wenlock Hospital are also treated using these advanced systems, ensuring wider access to quality cancer care.
The conference is being organized under the leadership of Dr M S Athiyamaan, organizing chairman, Dr Dishitha Shetty & Dr Abhishek Krishna, organizing secretary. They highlighted the theme of the conclave 'Bridging together disciplines for better gastrointestinal cancer outcomes' emphasizing coordinated multidisciplinary approaches to improve patient outcomes.
The conclave will bring together eminent medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, general surgeons, gastroenterologists, pathologists, radiologists, and allied specialists. The scientific programme includes lectures, panel discussions, and case-based discussions aimed at strengthening evidence-based clinical practice. With over 300 registrations, the conclave is expected to serve as a significant academic platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange in gastrointestinal oncology.
The inaugural function of the conclave will be held on January 31 at 10 am at the same venue. Dr Anand Venugopal, chief operating officer, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, will be the chief guest, while Dr Dilip G Naik, pro vice chancellor, MAHE, Mangaluru campus, will preside over the function.
Dr M Chakrapani, medical superintendent, KMC Hospital, Attavar, noted that World Cancer Day is observed annually on February 4. As part of World Cancer Day 2026 activities, the KMC Hospital Attavar Oncology Centre is organizing the Mangalore Can-Walk on February 1 at 6 am. The community awareness walk is expected to witness participation from around 1,300 people, including cancer survivors, caregivers, doctors, nurses, students, volunteers, and citizens from across Mangaluru.
The initiative aims to promote early detection, encourage healthy lifestyles, reduce stigma associated with cancer, and foster a strong support system for individuals and families affected by the disease. The walk also serves as a platform to highlight the importance of compassion, community engagement, and collective responsibility in the fight against cancer. Participants will walk along the route from Dr TMA Pai International Convention Centre – PVS Junction – Navabharath Circle – City Centre – Hampankatta – KMC Lighthouse Road Campus, symbolising solidarity and shared commitment towards a cancer-aware society.
The programme is supported by Mangalore Runners Club, Indian Cancer Society, L&T Technology Services, official radio partner - 93.5 Red FM, The Ocean Pearl, Decathlon, and The S Studio.