Prof. Anil K. D’Cruz MS, DNB, FRCS (Hon)
Prof. Anil K. D’Cruz is an internationally renowned Head and Neck Surgical Oncologist and one of the most respected leaders in global cancer care, research, and education. With more than three decades of experience, he has made landmark contributions to the surgical management of head and neck cancers and to the advancement of training in oncologic surgery worldwide.
He currently serves as Director of Oncology at Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai, and has previously held key leadership roles including Director of Tata Memorial Hospital and Chief of Head and Neck Services. Prof. D’Cruz is a past President (2020–2022) of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), becoming the first Indian surgeon to hold this position in the world’s largest cancer control organization.
A highly accomplished clinician–scientist, Prof. D’Cruz has authored over 500 peer-reviewed publications and numerous book chapters. His landmark randomized trial on management of the neck in early oral cancer, presented at the ASCO plenary session and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, established elective neck treatment as a global standard of care and significantly influenced international guidelines. His research interests also include molecular oncology, thyroid and salivary gland disease, and innovations in surgical oncology.
He has held presidential and leadership positions in multiple professional bodies, including the Foundation of Head and Neck Oncology (India), the Asian Society of Head and Neck Oncology, and the Indian Society of Thyroid Surgeons. A passionate educator, he was instrumental in initiating formal super-specialty training in Head and Neck Oncology in India and is widely sought after as a teacher and surgical mentor.
Prof. D’Cruz has delivered more than 1,000 invited lectures worldwide and is regularly invited to demonstrate advanced head and neck surgical techniques at major international meetings and training programs. His areas of expertise include oral and laryngeal cancers, thyroid and parathyroid surgery, salivary gland tumors, and complex neck disease.
As an instructor for this dissection course, Prof. D’Cruz brings unparalleled clinical experience, academic leadership, and a strong commitment to surgical education. Participants will benefit from his vast expertise, evidence-based approach, and dedication to advancing high-quality head and neck surgical training globally.
