My association with the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) has significantly contributed to my professional growth and global perspective in psycho-oncology. Through active participation in IPOS conferences, academic collaborations, and leadership opportunities, I have gained valuable exposure to international advancements in psychosocial cancer care, supportive oncology, and tobacco control. IPOS provided a platform to exchange knowledge with leading experts across the world, strengthening my research, clinical practice, and advocacy efforts. The organization has also inspired and supported my commitment to holistic, patient-centred cancer care, academic mentorship, and the advancement of psycho-oncology services in India.  

Surendran Veeraiah is Professor and Head of the Department of Psycho-oncology and the Resource Center for Tobacco Control at Cancer Institute (WIA). With over 25 years of experience, his work focuses on psycho-oncology, tobacco control, supportive care, survivorship, and end-of-life care. He has played a pioneering role in establishing psycho-oncology training programs in India and has mentored several doctoral scholars. As Director (Region 1) of IPOS, Co-Chair of the IPOS Health Promotion SIG, and Member of the IPOS Survivorship SIG, he actively contributes to international collaborations, education, research, and advocacy initiatives aimed at advancing psychosocial cancer care globally. His activities include conference presentations, academic mentoring, tobacco control initiatives, survivorship programs, and community-based interventions, particularly alternative livelihood programs for bidi workers. He is also committed to enhancing patient dignity through supportive care initiatives such as providing free wigs and breast prostheses for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Beyond his professional commitments, he enjoys mentoring young professionals and participating in community outreach activities that integrate public health, compassion, and social empowerment.

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