SunAct partners with Smita Memorial to transform cancer care

In Thodupuzha, Kerala, the SunAct Cancer Institute has formed a partnership with Smita Memorial Hospital and Research Centre with the purpose of enhancing cancer treatment in India. The collaboration shall make an Advanced Center for Cancer Therapeutics, with the convergence of state-of-the-art options in care of patients.

Leading this innovative program is Dr. Suresh H Advani, a pioneer in medical oncology and recipient of Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, whose large experience shall lend great impetus to innovate beyond standard cancer therapies.

SunAct Cancer Institute is an institute in cell and gene therapy and development of advanced cancer therapies. Amongst its significant achievements are India''s first CAR-T-cell therapies offered for rhabdomyosarcoma, ovarian cancer, and lung cancer.

 A number of revolutionary therapies directed towards cancer treatment, the CAR-T-cell therapy in solid tumors is one of them and will be first in India in the context of SunAct, with initiation through 2024 and 2025.

Advanced therapies such as TCR, TIL, gamma-delta, gene therapy, and pediatric oncology services will also be introduced through the initiative, which will further reinforce their bone marrow transplant programs while jointly granting the services of clinical trials, improving the overall outcomes of a patient.

Dr. Vijay Patil, Founder and Director of SunAct Cancer Institute, is a leading authority in cell and gene therapy with over 750 publications. His vision mandates that the institute is to remain highly innovative and centered around patients. The use of Smita Memorial would be instrumental in fulfilling the trust bestowed upon the hospital for making the treatments available and directing cancer care in India forward through advanced treatment modalities.

"This collaboration marks a defining moment in India's fight against cancer. By bringing together cutting-edge therapies and world-class expertise, we are creating a healthcare ecosystem where patients have access to the best possible treatments without needing to travel abroad. Our shared vision is to make breakthrough cancer care more accessible and affordable," said Dr Advani, chairman, Smita Memorial Hospital & Research Centre. Dr. (Prof.) Vijay Patil added, "SunAct Cancer Institute was founded with the mission of bridging the gap in high-quality cancer treatment through innovation and research-driven care. This partnership with Smita Memorial Hospital, coupled with the expertise of Dr. Advani, will allow us to introduce transformative therapies like CAR-T cell treatment for solid tumours—something unprecedented in India. We are setting a new benchmark in oncology".