Apollo Proton Cancer Centre Launches Advanced Clinic for Liver Cancers

In a significant advancement for cancer treatment in India, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) has officially inaugurated its 'Advanced Liver Cancers Clinic' in Chennai on July 8, 2025. The clinic aims to address the growing burden of liver cancer in the country by providing specialized, multidisciplinary care for both primary liver cancers and liver metastases. The launch event was graced by Radhakrishnan Thiagarajan, a retired Additional Director-General of Police, alongside Karan Puri, Chief Executive Officer of Apollo Cancer Centres, and Dr. Sujith Kumar Mullapally, a consultant in medical oncology at APCC.

According to a press release from APCC, liver cancer has seen a sharp increase in prevalence in India over the past decade, contributing to nearly 6% of the world's liver cancer cases. This surge has been attributed to a rise in hepatitis infections, alcoholic liver disease, obesity, and delays in early detection. In Tamil Nadu specifically, there has been a notable increase in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver metastases, particularly among patients with existing liver conditions.

Dr. Mullapally emphasized the clinic's focus on patient-centered care, stating that it will create standardized treatment pathways, conduct prospective research, and explore emerging therapies. The clinic is equipped with specialists from various fields, including medical oncology, surgical gastroenterology, hepatobiliary surgery, radiation oncology, interventional radiology, medical genetics, pathology, anesthesia, pain management, and palliative care. This multidisciplinary approach aims to fill the treatment gaps that have often resulted in late interventions for liver cancer patients.

The establishment of this clinic comes at a critical time when liver cancer is becoming increasingly prevalent in India. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the incidence of liver cancer is likely to rise even further without comprehensive preventive measures and early detection strategies. Research indicates that HCC often develops from chronic liver conditions such as cirrhosis due to chronic hepatitis B or C infections, excessive alcohol consumption, or fatty liver disease.

Experts from various institutions have voiced their support for the initiative. Dr. Anand Kumar, a liver cancer specialist at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, stated, "The integration of various specialists under one roof is crucial for improving treatment outcomes in liver cancer. This clinic represents a step forward in our fight against this disease."

Additionally, the National Cancer Registry Program in India has indicated that liver cancer cases are expected to rise by 20% in the next decade if current trends continue (National Cancer Registry Program, 2022). The establishment of the Advanced Liver Cancers Clinic at APCC could potentially alter this trajectory by providing the necessary resources and expertise for early detection and effective treatment.

In summary, the launch of the Advanced Liver Cancers Clinic at Apollo Proton Cancer Centre marks a pivotal moment in cancer care in India. By leveraging a multidisciplinary approach, the clinic aims to enhance treatment outcomes for liver cancer patients and contribute to ongoing research in this critical area of oncology. As the clinic begins its operations, it will be closely monitored to assess its impact on patient care and outcomes in the fight against liver cancer.