Rising Complex Peritoneal Cancer Cases Bring Asia-Pacific Experts Together in Singapore

SINGAPORE — Medical experts from across the Asia-Pacific region have gathered in Singapore to discuss the rising number of complex peritoneal cancer cases and to share the latest advancements in diagnosis and treatment.

The discussions took place during the 3rd SingHealth Peritoneal Surface Cancer Conference, a regional scientific meeting that brought together oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, imaging specialists, and researchers from several countries including Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Bangladesh, South Korea, and the Philippines.

Specialists noted that cases of peritoneal surface cancers are becoming more prevalent across the region. These cancers occur when tumours develop in the peritoneum, the thin membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering many internal organs such as the stomach, intestines, and liver.

Medical data shows that cancer metastasis to the peritoneum occurs in around 40 per cent of ovarian and uterine cancers, 25 per cent of gastric cancers, and 15 per cent of colon cancers, making it a significant complication in advanced cancer cases.

Experts at the conference emphasised that peritoneal cancers are particularly challenging to diagnose and treat because symptoms often appear only in advanced stages. Patients may experience abdominal pain, swelling, digestive problems, or unexplained weight loss once the disease has progressed.

Due to the complexity of the condition, specialists highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, where surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists work together to develop personalised treatment strategies.

Recent advancements in medical technology and cancer research have significantly improved the ability of doctors to diagnose and manage these complex cases. Modern imaging techniques, molecular diagnostics, and specialised surgical procedures are helping physicians identify cancer spread more accurately and design targeted therapies for patients.

One of the major treatment approaches discussed during the conference was cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), a specialised procedure in which surgeons remove visible tumours before administering heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity to destroy remaining cancer cells. This treatment strategy has shown promising results for certain patients with peritoneal surface malignancies.

Participants also shared clinical experiences, case studies, and emerging research findings aimed at improving survival rates and quality of life for patients diagnosed with these difficult cancers.

Organisers said the conference also serves to strengthen regional cooperation in cancer care and research. By bringing together specialists from multiple countries, the event allows doctors to exchange clinical knowledge, compare treatment models, and develop collaborative strategies for managing complex cancer cases across Asia.

Healthcare leaders noted that Singapore continues to position itself as a regional hub for advanced medical research and specialised cancer treatment, hosting international conferences and training programmes that promote knowledge exchange among medical professionals.

Experts stressed that improving early detection, increasing access to advanced treatment methods, and strengthening international collaboration will be crucial in tackling the rising burden of complex cancers in the Asia-Pacific region.

They added that continued research and cooperation among regional medical institutions will help accelerate innovation in oncology and provide better outcomes for patients facing some of the most challenging forms of cancer.