Mysuru, March 29, 2023: The Department of Postgraduate Studies in Kayachikitsa organized “NIYATI” – a conclave on an integrated approach to cancer care with a focus on incorporating various sciences for better outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients. The event aimed to showcase how Ayurveda can support integrated cancer care.
Distinguished oncologists from Mysuru and Padmashree awardee Vaidya Balendu Prakash from Dehradun were among the esteemed resource persons at the “NIYATI” conclave. Upon their arrival, the guests were given a tour of the hospital’s various wards, Panchakarma therapy sections, and highlighted on the various treatments available for different disorders. The main focus was on the hospital’s cancer care services.
Dr. Madhusudan BG, the Head of Department of Roganidana at JSS Ayurveda College, presided over the ceremony. Dr. Sarbeswar Kar, the Medical Superintendent, welcomed and introduced the esteemed guests to the audience.
Dr. Beena MD, a Reader in the Department of Kayachikitsa, provided the resource persons with a briefing on Ayurveda, highlighting the benefits of Ayurvedic and Panchakarma therapies in the treatment of cancer, and the care provided to cancer patients at their hospital. Dr. Beena also presented an overview of ongoing research activities and clinical trials conducted at the hospital, as well as insights into the patients referred to and treated at the hospital.
The Resoruce Persons of the conclave were:
- Chief Resource Person: Padmashree Vaidya Balendu Prakash, Ayurveda Physician, Padaav Specialty, Ayurvedic Treatment Centre, Dehradun. He shared his experiences and presented his extensive work in the treatment of Pancreatitis and management of patients with pancreatic cancer.
- Anil Thomas- Chairman of Oncology and Surgical Oncologist, Preethi Centre for Oncology, Mysuru.
- RAVI KRISHNAPPA, Associate Professor and Surgical Oncologist, JSS Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru.
- KIRAN P K, Assistant Professor, Department Of Medical Oncology – from JSS Medical College and Hospital, Mysuru.
- NAVEEN JAYARAM ANVEKAR, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Narayana Multi speciality Hospital, Mysuru.
- VIDYA G, Associate Consultant – Radiation Oncologist – from Narayana Multi speciality Hospital, Mysuru.
- ABHILASH G H, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology, Mysuru.
- SRINIVAS K G, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology.
- SRINIDHI M, Assistant Professor, Surgical Oncologist, Mysore Medical College and Research Institute, Mysuru.
- AVINASH CB, Consultant Medical Oncologist, ClearMedi Radiant Hospital, Mysuru.
During the sessions, a panel discussion was held by experts who expressed their opinions on the integration of the two medical systems to provide the best care to cancer patients based on scientific understanding. The panel agreed on the importance of complete support for integrating the two systems and meeting the needs of patients through collaboration.
All panel members unanimously suggested the need for more evidence-based studies in Ayurveda for cancer care to support an integrative approach and benefit society. The in-depth discussion emphasized the important role of Ayurvedic intervention in improving the quality of life of cancer patients by combating side effects or enhancing compliance of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and incorporating psychotherapy in cancer care. The discussion also highlighted the various areas of cancer treatment where Ayurveda can be an adjuvant therapy, reducing side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and mouth ulcers, and incorporating Panchakarma purification therapies and rejuvenation therapies for cancer prevention and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Dr. Veena G Rao, the Head of Department of Panchakarma, emphasized the importance of rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda, which can help healthy individuals in preventing many deadly diseases. Dr. Rao also highlighted how Panchakarma therapies can be helpful to both diseased patients and healthy individuals.
Sri. R. Mahesh, the Director of Medical Education at JSS Mahavidyapeetha, assured in his presidential remarks that the institution will carry out further research to establish the cancer clinic as even more beneficial for cancer patients.
Dr. Rajesh A. Udapudi, the Dean and HOD of the Department of PG studies in Kayachikitsa, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the experts for sharing their valuable inputs and thoughts on the integration in cancer care.
The conclave marks a significant milestone in the treatment and care of cancer patients, paving the way for integrated approaches and advancements in the field.