Insights by Toufic Kachaamy from City of Hope 2025 CME Event in GI Oncology

The 2025 Annual Advances and Innovations in Endoscopic Oncology and Multidisciplinary Gastrointestinal Cancer Care took place on April 5–6 in Las Vegas.

The conference brought together gastrointestinal oncologists from across the globe, bringing together clinicians, endoscopists, surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, pathologists, and researchers to share insights and advance the field – all united by a shared mission: to improve outcomes for patients with GI malignancies through innovation, collaboration, and precision medicine.

Toufic Kachaamy, Chief of Medicine and Medical Director of Gastroenterology at City of Hope Phoenix, shared insights from conference on LinkedIn:

“Kicking off our CME event with brilliance and inspiration from Dr. Stephen Gruber of City of Hope!

Dr. Gruber delivered a powerful opening session exploring the future of medicine through AI, liquid biopsies, and transformer-based deep learning models to assess the antitumor immune response. His presentation was a masterclass in how cutting-edge science can be harnessed to bring more precision, personalization, and hope to oncology care.

One standout quote that resonated deeply with our team:

“Instead of using the term artificial intelligence, we should call it augmented intelligence.”

This subtle shift in language reflects a profound truth—technology should amplify human insight, not replace it.

What an exciting way to launch a weekend of learning, collaboration, and forward-thinking innovation.”

“Another powerhouse session at our CME event – Dr. Cristian Tomasetti delivered a riveting talk on the future of cancer prevention and early detection.

He walked us through the evolving science of multi-cancer early detection, tissue localization, and the transformative role of fragmentomics. But what truly stood out was his emphasis on prevention over detection, highlighting some of the most influential research in colorectal cancer prevention we’ve seen to date.

One particularly exciting frontier: using blood-based testing not just to detect cancer, but to identify advanced adenomas—paving the way for earlier, less invasive interventions and potentially reducing cancer incidence altogether.

The science is advancing rapidly, and it’s clear we’re entering a new era of precision prevention.”

“What an incredible session by one of the most respected leaders in therapeutic endoscopy – Dr. Michelle Anderson.

Her talk on pancreatic cancer screening was both deeply insightful and grounded in the evolving challenges we face in clinical practice. She reminded us that screening leads to earlier stage detection and longer survival, which is exactly what patients deserve.

One quote that resonated with everyone in the room:

“Screening for pancreatic cancer is hard because of the false positives. One answer is to improve risk factors like avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol, among other factors.”

Dr. Anderson also emphasized the slide below – capturing the complexity of keeping up with the rapidly changing landscape of pancreatic cancer screening. A humbling reminder that innovation must be matched with ongoing education and thoughtful risk stratification.

Thank you, Dr. Anderson, for your leadership and clarity in a space that’s as challenging as it is critical.”

“What an amazing and insightful talk by Dr. Matan Fakih – diving deep into one of the most important questions in oncology today:

Can we achieve a curative outcome in primary colorectal cancer?

He broke it down with clarity and precision:

• The powerful role of PD-1 inhibition in MSI-H tumors
• The exciting potential of dual checkpoint inhibition (PD-1 + CTLA-4) in these patients
• And the critical question that remains:

– What about MSS colorectal cancer?
– How do we bring the same level of immunotherapeutic hope to the majority of patients?

This kind of translational and forward-looking discussion is what drives innovation and fuels our mission to not just extend life – but to cure.”

“A truly thought-provoking and inspiring talk today by Dr. Maarouf Hoteit on the emerging role of liver transplantation in colorectal liver metastases.

This approach represents a bold and hopeful frontier in cancer care – but one that comes with unique ethical and clinical challenges.

Unlike most treatments, liver transplant impacts not just one life, but three:

• The patient receiving the transplant,
• The donor offering the gift of life, and
• The patient on the waiting list who might be displaced.

Dr. Hoteit masterfully navigated the science, the outcomes, and the moral dimensions of this complex therapy. It’s these nuanced conversations that help us grow as clinicians – and more importantly, as humans – committed to doing what’s right, compassionate, and forward-thinking.”

“Grateful for the powerful introduction by Dr. Marwan Fakih that set the stage for our upcoming session on innovation and pushing the envelope in colorectal metastases to the liver – a critical and growing challenge in oncology that impacts thousands, including an increasing number of young adults.

This session isn’t just about new tools or techniques – it’s about hope, collaboration, and redefining what’s possible in the care of patients facing complex cancer journeys.

Excited to share how we’re working to advance the field and improve outcomes.”

“What an amazing and thought-provoking talk by Dr. Jordan Iannuzzi on the cost-effectiveness of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests!

He tackled one of the most important questions in modern oncology:

– With billions being spent, are we getting enough bang for our buck?
– And just as importantly – what is the value to the individual, and to society?

Dr. Iannuzzi explored the perspectives of patients and primary care physicians, showing how attitudes, expectations, and access all shape outcomes in this new frontier of care. He also reminded us that while the technology is exciting, we’re still in the early innings – and the right research is essential to get us where we need to go.

It was a session that blended policy, precision medicine, and practicality – a much-needed lens as we navigate innovation in cancer detection.”

“Just witnessed an incredible talk by Dr. Gagandeep Singh, on pushing the boundaries in liver resection for colorectal metastases. His insights into staged resections – sometimes involving up to 90% of liver volume – were nothing short of inspiring.

Even more impressive was the integration of multimodality local therapies, including Y-90 radioembolization and hepatic artery infusion, as part of a comprehensive, aggressive approach to give patients the best possible chance at long-term survival.

Colorectal liver metastases remain a major challenge, especially with rising incidence in younger adults. Talks like this remind us that we’re not just treating tumors – we’re expanding the frontiers of hope.”

“Gratitude. Inspiration. Community.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our CME event this morning.

What an incredible gathering of brilliant minds, passionate clinicians, and forward-thinking leaders!

From cutting-edge discussions on AI, liquid biopsies, and multi-cancer early detection, to powerful talks on cost-effectiveness, prevention, and the rapidly evolving landscape of GI oncology – your presence and engagement is making it all unforgettable.

This event isn’t just about education. It is about connection, collaboration, and a shared commitment to better patient care.

Here’s to continuing the conversations, pushing the boundaries, and supporting one another on this journey of healing and discovery.”

More posts featuring Toufic Kachaamy on OncoDaily.