Roche Pharma India Shines at the Prestigious APAO Congress 2025

Roche Pharma India recently participated as a Gold Sponsor in the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress 2025, held at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi from April 03-06, 2025. The marquee event, held annually, is organized by the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO), a supranational organization dedicated to advancing ophthalmology in the APAC region. Roche's participation marked a significant milestone in its ophthalmology journey, as it proudly presented science, storytelling, and innovation to over 12,0001 eye health professionals from around the world who attended the event.

The STAR narrative brought to life at the booth

This year, the APAO Congress celebrates its 40th edition, marking a historic milestone as it makes its maiden appearance in India. Roche Pharma’s participation was centred around Vabysmo (which made its debut in India last year) and the differentiated S.T.A.R. positioning — that resonated strongly with healthcare professionals (HCPs) who were part of the event. S.T.A.R stands for Start Early, Treat Adequately, Achieve Stability, Reduce Injection, and is a process-based approach that can aid in effective retinal disease management.

The AI enabled photo booth

The unique narrative was brought to life by immersive experiences at the booth, such as the STAR Puzzle, STAR AI-enabled photo booth (#STARForSight), STAR Revealer, and consistent STAR messaging. These experiences resonated well with attendees, including healthcare professionals and KOLs, who engaged positively at the booth and showed their receptiveness to this approach.

The Roche booth at the event

The Roche booth also demonstrated the company’s commitment to advancing eye care through breakthrough solutions, cutting-edge technology, and collaborative approaches. The rich pipeline of its innovation, coupled with recent clinical data on faricimab and real time response to medical queries were also presented to the attendees. Dynamic engagement zones, including a VR zone, an AI-powered chatbot, and The Blue Tree Zone were testaments of its flagship patient support program. To celebrate HCPs and KOLs as changemakers in vision care, an AI photobooth experience aligned with the STAR campaign was also installed, encouraging participants to click and share their moment as a #StarForSight. Over 950 KOLs engaged through this activity, creating a ripple of enthusiasm.

Visitors at the booth

The scientific engagement was equally robust. Roche supported 17 oral sessions, featuring 13 HCPs from 7 APAC countries, and hosted a high-impact symposium featuring 20 top KOLs. The message of “Time for Change” to faricimab resonated well with the faculty at the symposium. The sessions were instrumental in generating excitement around Roche’s pipeline, strengthening its leadership credentials and building anticipation for what’s ahead in ophthalmology.

APAO 2025 generated considerable excitement around future innovations, showcasing Roche's commitment to advancing eye care. The various multi-sensory booth experiences captivated attendees, while strategic engagement with top-tier KOLs across scientific and public channels amplified key messages. Overall, it was able to craft its legacy in ophthalmology, while reinforcing Vabysmo’s differentiated STAR positioning. 

APAO 2025 was more than just a congress—it was a powerful demonstration of Roche’s vision, commitment, and leadership in ophthalmology. Through an amalgamation of science, innovation and partnership, it has been able to exemplify its purpose at the milestone event: ‘Doing now what patients need next’.