SJEC hosts an Online Faculty Development Program (FDP) on “Early Detection of Cancer: Bridging Academia and Clinical Practice”

Mangaluru: The Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) at St. Joseph Engineering College (SJEC) Mangaluru, in collaboration with the Centre for Training and Learning (CTL) at NIT Warangal, hosted a five-day online FDP titled “Early Detection of Cancer: Bridging Academia and Clinical Practice” from 10 to 14 September 2024. The event aimed to integrate academic research with practical applications in cancer detection. Seventy-four participants attended, with the program coordinated by Dr. Dayakshini, HOD of the ECE Department, and Ms. Shama B. N., Assistant Professor at SJEC. Dr. Rio D’Souza, Principal-SJEC, shared his vision for the integration of research and practice in cancer detection. Rev. Fr. Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, Director-SJEC, also offered his blessings and insights, emphasizing the importance of such collaborative initiatives.

Prof. Kishore Kumar T from NIT Warangal discussed the use of AI in medical imaging and its role in cancer detection, specifically in skin cancer. Dr. Roopa B. Hegde from N.M.A.M.I.T. Nitte presented machine learning applications for leukemia diagnosis through PBS image analysis. 

Prof. K. V. Sridhar from NIT Warangal spoke on brain tumor segmentation using adaptive non-convex methods and super-pixel motion detection. Dr. Vidya Kudva and Dr. Keerthana Prasad explored AI’s role in cervical cancer detection, including screening models, HPV testing, and the integration of clinical practices.

Dr. Aparna P. from NITK Surathkal discussed advanced image analysis with wireless capsule endoscopy for detecting gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Shyam Lal presented on AI models for liver cancer detection using histopathology images, emphasizing deep learning applications.

Dr. Harsha D. S. from A.J. Hospital Mangalore shared a clinician’s perspective on lung cancer detection challenges. Dr. Anitha H. from MIT Manipal discussed lung nodule detection and the use of 2D to 3D registration in surgery. Dr. Sudarshan Rao highlighted the importance of early cancer detection, emphasizing the need for regular screenings.

Prof. Kunal Pal from NIT Rourkela explained the role of chemometric analysis in medical diagnostics, particularly in cancer detection. Dr. Vasudha Devi from Kasturba Medical College focused on imaging modalities for breast cancer detection and their role in treatment planning.

The FDP concluded with a valedictory program during which participants shared their feedback. Dr. Vasudha Devi inspired attendees to apply their learning in research, while Rev. Fr. Kenneth Rayner Crasta spoke about the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between the medical and engineering fields. Prof. Kishore T offered his congratulations to the organizing team and participants for their active involvement over the five days. The program concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Shama B. N., the FDP Coordinator.