Emirates Oncology Society Conference 2023 Kicks Off In Dubai With Global Experts Discussing Cancer Advances

The 6th Annual Emirates Oncology Society (EOS) Conference commenced in Dubai, organised with the Emirates Medical Association and backed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP). This event is a significant medical and scientific platform in the region, gathering over 700 oncology experts from 20 countries. Over two days, they discuss cancer diagnosis and treatment advancements and explore international research collaboration opportunities.

The conference features more than 120 speakers across 50 scientific sessions. These sessions cover all major cancer types through dedicated tracks and specialised workshops. A large exhibition showcases leading global pharmaceutical companies' participation. Esteemed international experts join UAE and regional physicians, making this a unique knowledge exchange platform.

A plenary session on Innovation in Oncology included lectures on topics like "Drugging the Undruggable," early cancer detection via blood tests, Ga-68 FAPI PET imaging for personalised medicine, advances in brain tumour management, and promising T-cell therapies. These discussions highlight cutting-edge developments in oncology.

Day one featured a MoHAP session led by Dr. Buthaina Al Muhairi from Public Health and Prevention Department. It emphasised the role of multidisciplinary medical teams in the UAE. Additional sessions addressed advanced clinical trials in head and neck cancers, breast cancer treatment de-escalation strategies, HER2+ case strategies, axillary radiation debates, endocrine resistance challenges, and CDK4/6 inhibitors' role.

Lung cancer was also a focal point with debates on first-line treatment for mutation-positive lung cancer. Discussions included biomarkers' role in refining immunotherapy, surgical approaches during neoadjuvant immunotherapy, and updates on small cell lung cancer treatments. These sessions provided insights into current challenges and advancements.

Introduction of New Therapies

On the conference sidelines, Takeda announced a new oral therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in the UAE. This innovative treatment is chemotherapy-free and marks the first such introduction to patients in over a decade. This development signifies progress in offering diverse treatment options to patients.

Specialised tracks also covered prostate, gastrointestinal, gynecologic, central nervous system, and liver cancers. Global experts debated radiotherapy strategies, immunotherapies, proton therapy innovations, MRI-guided radiation technologies, personalised medicine approaches for gastrointestinal cancers, bladder cancers, ovarian cancers integration of early palliative care.

Recognition of Contributions

In his opening address, Prof. Humaid bin Harmal Al Shamsi stated: "We are proud to host the sixth edition of the EOS Conference... It reaffirms the UAE’s role as a leader in promoting research and innovation to improve patient outcomes and quality of life." His words underscore the conference's importance as a platform for advancing oncology care.

As part of its closing activities, EOS honoured 24 researchers and medical professionals for their contributions to cancer research. A posthumous tribute was paid to Dr. Mohamed Al Ali with his son receiving an award alongside recognition of several cancer survivors for their courage and resilience. This gesture highlights appreciation for dedication within this field.

With inputs from WAM