Goa Hosts High-Level CME Workshop on Cancer Genetics and Counselling
Panaji, April 13, 2026: The Gokarma Oncology Association, in collaboration with Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) workshop on Cancer Genetics & Counselling at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula, on Monday.
The half-day academic programme brought together leading oncologists, genetic specialists, and healthcare professionals to deliberate on the increasing relevance of genetic testing and counselling in modern cancer care and precision oncology.
Addressing the gathering, experts highlighted that India reports approximately 14 lakh new cancer cases annually, of which nearly 3 per cent are hereditary in nature. These cases are linked to germline mutations in cancer predisposition genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, MLH1, MSH2, TP53, and APC. The workshop underscored the urgent need for structured genetic counselling services, early risk assessment, and preventive oncology strategies.
Dr. Shekhar Salkar, President of the Gokarma Oncology Association, said, “Cancer care is rapidly evolving with the integration of genetics into routine clinical practice. Early identification of hereditary cancers through genetic testing and timely counselling can significantly improve outcomes, enable preventive strategies, and guide personalised treatment. This workshop is an important step towards strengthening genetic awareness and services in Goa and beyond.”
The scientific sessions featured eminent faculty from premier institutions including Tata Memorial Hospital, Manipal Hospital Goa, Goa Medical College, and other leading centres. Deliberations covered key areas such as genetic counselling pathways post-referral, guidelines for genetic testing in breast and colorectal cancers, hereditary cancer syndromes, and advances in targeted therapies including PARP inhibitors for ovarian cancer.
A major highlight of the programme was an interdisciplinary panel discussion on “Genetic Testing & Counselling in Clinical Practice,” where specialists from medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology, and genetics shared practical insights and case-based experiences. The discussion emphasised the integration of genetic services into routine clinical workflows to improve patient outcomes.
The workshop forms part of the outreach initiative of the Cancer Genetics Clinic at Tata Memorial Hospital aimed at expanding access to genetic counselling and screening services across the country, including Goa. The initiative seeks to strengthen early detection frameworks and enable personalised cancer care.
The event witnessed active participation from clinicians and healthcare professionals across the state, reflecting the growing awareness and adoption of genetics-driven approaches in oncology.
The programme concluded with a networking session, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among participants committed to advancing cancer care in the region.
Pic caption: Around 90 doctors and healthcare professionals participated in the CME workshop on Cancer Genetics & Counselling organised by the Gokarma Oncology Association in collaboration with Tata Memorial Hospital at the International Centre Goa, Dona Paula, on Monday.
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