Skilled and knowledgeable nursing manpower forms the backbone of any advanced medical technology, said former President of India Abdul Kalam.  He was speaking at the inauguration of the National  Nursing Conference for Oncology organized by HCG, the Specialist in Cancer Care which is a three-day event from June 12 to 14, being held at Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bengaluru.

The main purpose of organizing the conference was to navigating through the changing landscapes of nursing in oncology.

This conference enabled the participants to acquire knowledge on advanced concepts of oncology nursing care for various age groups but also demonstrated skills in understanding and integrating the technological advancements to promote a safe delivery of eco-centric cancer care.

Among the other key speakers at the conference were Dr. BS Ajaikumar – Chairman, – HCG, Dr. Mudit Saxena ,  COO – HCG, Dr. G Kilara – Director HCG-MSR Cancer Center and Dr. Radheshyam,  Head, – Bone Marrow Transplant – HCG, Dr. G. Kasthuri - Consultant & Director - Nursing Education, RGUHS, Karnataka, Dr. Praveena Gayathri - Associate Consultant, Dept. of Pain & Palliative and Integrative Oncology ,  Muzumdar Shaw Medical Centre and Maryann Washington - Division of Epidemiology - Biostatistics & Population Health - St. John's Research Institute, Bengluru.

 “Nursing is the second oldest profession in the world, it emerges as an art and science, touches lives from womb to tomb, having the wings of complexity and simplicity, empathy and nurturance, being strengthened by healing touch and high end. It is so true for oncology nursing fraternity, where uncertainty, hopelessness, helplessness, fear, anxiety, pain, and suffering are the order of the day of patients. Nurses are called to care for these patients and families with commitment, conviction, and compassion”, said Antonia.P, AGM-Nursing - HCG Cancer Care.