Hyundai collaborates with IIT Madras on Hope for Cancer initiative aimed at enhancing pediatric cancer treatment

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have joined forces in a significant collaboration, aiming to revolutionise cancer genomics research and treatment in India. The partnership, known as the Hyundai Hope for Cancer initiative, is set to foster deep industry-academia partnerships, translational research, and talent development in healthcare and genomics.

Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, expressed his delight at the partnership, noting the potential for breakthrough studies in paediatric oncology, leading to improved diagnostics and targeted treatments. Unsoo Kim, Managing Director of HMIL, shared similar sentiments, expressing pride in collaborating with IIT Madras on this initiative.

At the heart of this collaboration is the Hyundai Centre for Cancer Genomics, which aims to collect and sequence 1,600 samples for advanced genomic research in paediatric leukaemia and lymphoma. The centre also plans to provide free treatment to 30-50 children and train 100 technicians in genomics.

The initiative also includes the establishment of India's first community-based Cancer Tissue Biobank at IIT Madras's main campus in Chennai. The Biobank's primary goal is to build a national childhood cancer genome database and a national database for paediatric leukaemia and lymphoma. This resource will enable more personalised treatment protocols, paving the way for more effective and targeted cancer care.

In addition to its research focus, the Hyundai Hope for Cancer initiative is also committed to increasing cancer awareness and screening. Over the next four years, the programme will organise 225 awareness and screening camps across Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Maharashtra, targeting a population of 1.27 lakh individuals. The initiative also aims to administer HPV vaccinations to 5,000 girls.

The programme's extensive reach is made possible through the collaboration between Hyundai Motor India and the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI). The partnership reaffirms India's commitment to equitable, technology-enabled healthcare, ensuring access to timely treatment for economically disadvantaged families.

International organisations, including the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), are also part of this collaborative effort. This international partnership underscores the global significance of the Hyundai Hope for Cancer initiative and India's role in advancing cancer research and treatment on a global scale.

In conclusion, the partnership between Hyundai Motor India and IIT Madras marks a significant step forward in cancer research and treatment in India. The Hyundai Hope for Cancer initiative is poised to make a meaningful impact in the field of paediatric oncology, while also increasing cancer awareness and access to care for underserved populations.

Hyundai collaborates with IIT Madras on Hope for Cancer initiative aimed at enhancing pediatric cancer treatment