Unhealthy diets, irregular lifestyles, and environmental pollution are driving the rapid rise of cancer cases in Bangladesh and other developing nations, experts warned at the opening of the two-day Bangladesh International Cancer Congress 2025.
The event, organised by the Oncology Club Bangladesh, began on Friday at the Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden with the participation of over 1,200 oncologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals, including 31 international experts from 16 countries.
Experts said adulterated food and air pollution are worsening the situation, with nearly 250,000 new cancer cases reported annually in Bangladesh.
Oncology Club Bangladesh President and Congress Chair Professor MA Hai described the trend as deeply alarming, saying, “A large portion of our population remains outside the reach of proper cancer treatment. Our mission is to build skilled professionals and ensure quality care to modernise cancer treatment in Bangladesh.”
“To win the fight against cancer and bring smiles back to patients and their families, we must work together,” he added, praising government efforts to establish cancer units in every district and urging young physicians to take active roles in cancer care.
Academic partners of this year’s congress include the University of Bologna (Italy), SingHealth (Singapore), and the Global Health Catalyst. Participants also include experts from Royal Modern Hospital and St. Bartholomew’s Hospital in the UK, KHCC Education and Training Academy, Whipps Cross University Hospital, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, and the University of Pennsylvania in the US.
Led by Professor MA Hai and General Secretary Dr AMM Shariful Alam, the Oncology Club Bangladesh is hosting several academic sessions featuring leading oncologists, scientists, and researchers to share insights on advancing cancer care in Bangladesh.
