Rohit Shishodia
Dr Anil D’Cruz, Director, Oncology Services, Apollo Cancer Centres, is the first Indian Oncologist directly elected as president at the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC, Geneva), the largest and most influential cancer organisation globally that works closely with WHO and other global cancer and economic bodies and has a membership of 1200 organizations from over 172 countries.

Dr D’Cruz has been on the board of directors of the UICC 2012 -2018 and was elected as President Elect in October 2018. Dr. Anil K. D’Cruz brings with him over 30 years of experience in the field of cancer care. He succeeds HRH Princess Dina Mired of Jordan to the post and is the first Indian Oncologist to lead this global body.

Dr. Prathap Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “We are pleased to have Dr. Anil D’Cruz represent India at a global level and lead the UICC as the President. This recognition marks India’s global presence as one of the leaders in cancer care.”

“The increase in the number of cancer cases, is indeed a matter of great concern and it is essential to bring in the best experts and leaders together to create better guidelines, counsel and awareness for early diagnosis,” said Dr Reddy.

Dr. Anil D’Cruz commented “These are difficult times and the path to cancer treatment and prevention has become even more challenging now. It needs a team effort and I am sure along with the board of Directors as well as with inputs from health leaders and our members we will adapt to the task on hand.”

“The current pandemic has had a devastating effect on patient management, screening programs, treatment costs as well as the financial viability of many organizations/ hospitals. While we need to support our governments in the control of this pandemic we must not lose focus and ensure that cancer is firmly on our minds as we seek to adapt to the new normal,” he added.

Dr D’Cruz further explained, “We must reach out and support each other as we learn each day, more and more about the intersection between Covid 19 and cancer. There will be changes in the dynamics of cancer care with modifications in treatment and screening protocols. At UICC, we hope to play a pivotal role as we live up to our mission statement of uniting and supporting the global cancer community in our fight against cancer.”