Shekhawat Urges Faster Lab-to-Clinic Translation for Cancer Care

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat addressed an international conference on radiation biology and cancer research, calling for accelerated translation of laboratory discoveries into clinical practice. He highlighted India's progress in cancer care infrastructure, including improved diagnostics and affordable treatments. The minister emphasized that research in radiation biology is central to modern cancer therapy, optimizing doses and minimizing side effects. Shekhawat concluded by encouraging young scientists to embrace interdisciplinary collaboration to drive future innovation in patient-centric healthcare.

Key Points: Minister Calls for Faster Cancer Research Translation

  • Faster translation of lab discoveries
  • Doctors' experience guiding research
  • Radiation biology's central role
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration key
2 min read

Union Minister calls for translation of lab discoveries into clinical practice

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasizes bridging lab research and clinical practice to improve cancer treatment in India.

"A continuous dialogue between the laboratory and the bedside makes modern medicine more effective, safer and more humane. - Gajendra Singh Shekhawat"

Bikaner, Jan 19

Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Monday called for faster translation of laboratory discoveries into clinical practice, saying that doctors' practical experience and observations should also guide basic scientific research in return.

Addressing the two-day international conference on "Frontiers of Radiation Biology and Cancer Research" at Dungar College through an online address, the Union Minister said a continuous dialogue between the laboratory and the bedside makes modern medicine more effective, safer and more humane.

He noted that India's scientific ecosystem and health infrastructure have made remarkable strides in recent years, particularly in cancer science.

Shekhawat said the country has taken significant steps in improving diagnostic accuracy, developing affordable treatment options and expanding access to quality cancer care.

He added that institutions such as Regional Cancer Centres, medical colleges and community hospitals are now equipped to deliver state-of-the-art and complex treatments with compassion, sensitivity and high professional competence.

Emphasising the role of radiation biology, the Union Minister said research in the field is central to modern cancer treatment. A deeper understanding of the body's response to radiation, minimising side effects and scientifically optimising radiation doses to improve patients' quality of life form the backbone of effective cancer therapy.

Research in both basic and clinical radiation sciences, he added, directly strengthens the nation's healthcare mission.

Shekhawat described radiation as one of the most powerful tools in both diagnosis and treatment.

However, he said its true potential can only be realised through a comprehensive understanding of its cellular and systemic effects, ensuring safe, balanced and effective application.

Addressing young scientists, researchers and students, the Union Minister said their curiosity, dedication and collaborative spirit will shape the future of the field and elevate India's scientific identity globally.

He noted that modern science increasingly rewards those who transcend disciplinary boundaries -- physicists exploring biology, doctors embracing data and informatics, and biologists engaging closely with clinical realities.

He concluded by expressing confidence that such interdisciplinary approaches will drive innovation and lead to more patient-centric, impactful healthcare solutions in the years ahead.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Absolutely agree. We have brilliant minds in our research labs, but the system to get those discoveries to the common man's bedside is too slow and bureaucratic. Need more public-private partnerships for this.
R
Rohit P
Good speech, but I hope this isn't just talk. We hear such promises often. The real test is funding and policy change. Our cancer care is improving, but it's still unaffordable for many. "Affordable treatment" needs to be truly affordable.
D
David E
The emphasis on interdisciplinary work is spot on. The future of medicine is at the intersection of fields. India has a huge opportunity to lead in this if we invest in our young scientists properly.
S
Shreya B
As a medical student, this is very encouraging to hear. Often research feels disconnected from the ground reality. A two-way street where doctors' observations feed back into research is a brilliant and much-needed approach. More conferences like this, please!
K
Karthik V
True potential lies in execution. We need to streamline approval processes for new treatments and diagnostics developed in Indian labs. Also, making these technologies accessible in tier 2 and 3 cities is the real challenge. Jai Hind!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50