INTRODUCTION
Dear Colleagues,
Dear Friends,
It is with great
honour that we invite you to the 17th International Conference of
Contemporary Oncology, a gathering that stands at the forefront of cancer
research and clinical innovation. This conference arrives at a pivotal moment
when oncology is rapidly evolving through breakthroughs in precision medicine,
immunotherapy, and technological integration. The collective efforts of
researchers, clinicians, and innovators worldwide are transforming cancer care
from a one-size-fits-all approach to one that is deeply personalized and
biologically driven. We are witnessing breakthroughs in our understanding of
the molecular and genetic basis of cancer development, which is driving the
development of next-generation immunotherapy treatments.
Over recent years, we
have witnessed remarkable progress in understanding the molecular and genetic
underpinnings of cancer, which has enabled the development of highly targeted
therapies and next-generation immunotherapies. Emerging modalities such as bispecific
antibodies, CAR T-cell therapies targeting solid tumours, and personalised
cancer vaccines are reshaping treatment paradigms, offering new hope and
improved outcomes for patients across diverse cancer types. Additionally,
artificial intelligence and advanced diagnostic tools are not only enhancing
early detection but also optimising treatment decisions to maximise efficacy
while minimising side effects. This year conference will have a special
session focused on the genealogy and future of cell therapies.
In parallel, the
European Union is advancing a robust regulatory and policy framework designed
to accelerate innovation and patient access in oncology. The European Health
Data Space (EHDS), Joint Clinical Assessments (JCA) under the Health Technology
Assessment (HTA) Regulation, and strategies like the EU Life Sciences Strategy,
upcoming Biotech Act, and Europe's Beating Cancer Plan form a cohesive
ecosystem accelerating oncology research and therapy development by
enhancing data access, standardizing evaluations, and prioritizing cancer
innovations e.g. biopharmaceutical innovation, digital health integration, and
sustainable healthcare ecosystems across member states. What is more, the broad
spectrum of supporting instruments should enable further scientific and
therapeutic developments.
These trends are also
visible in the identification of leading areas of specialisation and the
building of competitiveness of countries and regions, for example through
specific so-called smart specialisations relating to the prevention, diagnosis
and treatment of lifestyle diseases such as cancer, and the accompanying
development of medical biotechnology.
Looking forward, the
17th International Conference of Contemporary Ocology will highlight innovative frontiers including
novel drug platforms, combination therapies, and the integration of digital
health technologies that will further elevate the standard of care. Amidst
these scientific advancements, a patient-centered approach remains paramount,
recognizing the individual's role as a partner in their treatment journey.
We invite all participants to engage deeply with
the cutting-edge research and discussions that will unfold during this event,
fostering collaborations that will accelerate the translation of discoveries
into lifesaving therapies. Together, we can envision and realize a future where
cancer is increasingly preventable, manageable, and ultimately curable.