ESMO GI 2025: Your Guide to the Must-Attend Oncology Event

The ESMO GI Cancer Congress 2025 stands at the forefront of advancements in gastrointestinal oncology. Bringing together leading clinicians, researchers, and industry experts, this congress fosters collaboration and drives innovation in cancer treatment and patient care.
By facilitating knowledge exchange and showcasing the latest breakthroughs, the ESMO GI Cancer Congress plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of GI cancer management. This article explores its mission, impact, and key achievements, highlighting how it continues to lead global efforts in improving outcomes for patients with gastrointestinal malignancies.

Evolution of ESMO

Founded in 1975, the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has grown into a leading force in advancing cancer research, treatment, and patient care. Initially focused on fostering collaboration among oncologists, ESMO has evolved into a global platform driving innovation, policy reform, and equitable access to cancer care.

In its early years, ESMO concentrated on strengthening medical oncology as a specialty, laying the foundation for evidence-based cancer treatment. By the 1990s, the society expanded its reach with educational programs, including the ESMO Preceptorships and the development of ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines, setting standards for cancer management worldwide.

The 2000s marked a shift toward personalized medicine, with ESMO integrating molecular oncology and targeted therapies into its educational and research initiatives. In 2014, the society launched ESMO-Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS), a tool to assess the value of new cancer treatments, ensuring patients receive the most effective therapies.

More recently, ESMO has championed global equity in cancer care, leading initiatives like ESMO Global Policy to address disparities in treatment access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The ESMO Asia Congress and partnerships with international organizations further highlight its commitment to worldwide collaboration.

 ESMO GI Mission and Vision

ESMO GI’s vision is to unite different sectors, including medical professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders, to strengthen cancer prevention and treatment strategies. A key focus is ensuring equitable access to care, especially in underserved regions, so that all patients receive the best possible treatment regardless of their location.
Beyond scientific discussions, ESMO GI plays a crucial role in shaping global cancer policies. By working on healthcare improvements, supporting research, and promoting innovative treatments, ESMO aims to create a future where cancer care is more accessible, effective, and patient-centered.

source: www.esmo.org

Why is ESMO GI Important for Cancer Control?

The ESMO GI Cancer Congress significantly influences gastrointestinal cancer treatment and early detection. 1 Past events have showcased successful liquid biopsy integration for early colorectal cancer detection and driven personalized medicine adoption, improving global treatment protocols. With attendees from over 100 countries, it fosters global collaboration and knowledge exchange, with the 2025 Congress expected to attract thousands of oncology professionals.

What Happens at the ESMO GI Cancer Congress?

The ESMO GI Cancer Congress offers a variety of sessions that focus on advancing gastrointestinal oncology through global collaboration and knowledge exchange. Plenary sessions feature leading experts discussing critical topics, while highlight sessions showcase the latest trends in diagnosis, treatment, and personalized care. Panel discussions offer diverse insights on complex challenges, and workshops provide hands-on training in clinical practice, molecular profiling, and emerging therapies.
Key events include dynamic keynote speeches, debates, and presentations that promote innovative approaches in GI cancer management. The Congress attracts researchers, oncologists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers, fostering rich interdisciplinary discussions and collaboration across the global oncology community.

 source: www.esmo.org

Key Details of ESMO GI 2024

The ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress 2024, held in Munich and online from June 26-29, convened over 3,000 oncology professionals. Key themes included early detection, personalized therapies, immunotherapy, genomics, and digital technologies. Discussions also addressed global healthcare disparities and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. Speakers like Dr. D’Amico, Dr. Reckamp, and Dr. Kahn highlighted recent breakthroughs and the importance of global collaboration.

Check Out One of Our Posts About ESMO GI 2024!

Breakthrough Research from Past ESMO GI Meetings

The ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress 2024 showcased breakthrough research in gastrointestinal cancer treatments and molecular insights. Dr. Jean-François Boige presented a study demonstrating improved overall survival in MSI-H colorectal cancer patients treated with pembrolizumab and anti-angiogenic therapy, compared to chemotherapy. Dr. Emily Shulman’s team shared six-year follow-up data from the CHECKMATE-142 trial, confirming a 7% improvement in progression-free survival and sustained overall survival benefits with nivolumab in metastatic MSI-H colorectal cancer, reinforcing immunotherapy’s role as a standard of care.

source:www.esmo.org

ESMO GI 2025: What to Expect

The ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress (ESMO GI) 2025 will take place from June 25–28, 2025, in Barcelona, Spain, bringing together global experts in gastrointestinal oncology. The congress will focus on key advancements in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of GI cancers, with an emphasis on immunotherapy, precision oncology, and innovative technologies.

The event will highlight significant progress in molecular oncology, with a focus on understanding the genetic and molecular drivers of GI cancers. It will also explore novel diagnostic tools such as liquid biopsies and next-generation sequencing (NGS), which enhance early detection and monitoring. Personalized treatments will be a key theme, including updates on targeted therapies for colorectal cancer (CRC) and the role of immunotherapy in liver, pancreatic, and esophageal cancers.

CAR-T cell therapy is expected to be a major topic, with early-phase trials showing promise in treating advanced CRC and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Additionally, precision oncology will be explored through genomic profiling, AI-driven diagnostics, and predictive biomarkers, aimed at optimizing treatments for rare and difficult-to-treat GI cancer subtypes.

Scientific Co-Chairs Michel Ducreux, Teresa Macarulla, and Eric Van Cutsem will lead discussions, offering groundbreaking insights and research updates, setting the stage for new approaches in GI cancer care.

Meet the Experts: ESMO GI 2025 Congress Officers and Scientific Committee

The ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress 2025 is led by a distinguished team of experts dedicated to advancing GI cancer research and treatment.
The Scientific Co-Chairs—Michel Ducreux (France), Teresa Macarulla (Spain), and Eric Van Cutsem (Belgium)—will guide the congress, shaping discussions on the latest breakthroughs in GI oncology.

Supporting them is an international Scientific Committee featuring leading oncologists and researchers from around the world. From the United States to Europe, Asia, and beyond, these experts bring diverse perspectives and expertise in gastrointestinal cancers. Their contributions will help ensure a high-quality program, featuring cutting-edge research, clinical insights, and innovative therapies.

source: www.esmo.org

ESMO GI 2025 Dates and Location: Registration, important Information

📅 Date: 2–5 July 2025
📍 Location: CCIB – International Barcelona Convention Centre, Barcelona, Spain (Hybrid Event)

Abstract Submission Deadlines

• Regular Abstracts: Deadline: 8 April 2025, 21:00 hrs CEST
• Late-breaking Abstracts (LBA):Deadline: 5 June 2025, 21:00 hrs CEST
• Trial in Progress (TiP) Abstracts:Submit ongoing clinical trials that have not reached protocol-specified endpoints.
• Intent to Submit LBA:A skeleton of the data must be submitted by the regular abstract deadline on 8 April 2025.

Abstract Categories

• Colon Cancer
• Hepatocellular and Non-biliary Liver Cancer
• Rare GI Cancers (e.g., GEP-NETs, endocrine pancreatic, duodenal cancer, anal cancer)
• Rectal Cancer
• Upper Digestive – Biliary, Ampullary, and Pancreatic Cancer
• Upper Digestive – Esophageal and Gastric Cancers
• Miscellaneous

Late-Breaking Abstracts (LBA):

• LBAs are for new, high-quality research from prospective interventional clinical trials, observational studies, or novel technologies with significant clinical implications.
• Final deadline for LBAs: 5 June 2025 (This is not an extension of the general submission deadline).

Trial in Progress (TiP) Abstracts

• TiP abstracts can be submitted for trials in all phases (I-III) of clinical research.
• TiPs are for ongoing trials without protocol-specified endpoints for analysis.

Outcome Notifications

• Regular Abstracts: Outcome notifications will be available by end-April 2025.
• Late-Breaking Abstracts (LBA): Outcome notifications will be available by 10 June 2025.

Information for Presenters

• Detailed instructions for preparing slide presentations and posters will be provided by end-April 2025.
• Abstract Presenter Registration Deadline:
  • Presenting authors must register by 11 June 2025 (for regular abstracts) or 16 June 2025 (for late-breaking abstracts only) to avoid exclusion from the program.

Presentation and Publication of Accepted Abstracts

• Proffered Paper: Oral presentations of original data of superior quality.
• Mini Oral: Short oral presentations of data of good quality.
• Poster: Paper poster presentations for review and discussion onsite. Presenters must attend in person.
• E-Poster: Electronic poster (PDF) for inclusion on the Congress Virtual Platform and onsite digital screens. Authors of ePosters do not need to attend in person.

ESMO Merit Travel Grant

• Available for: ESMO Members under 40 who are first authors (presenters) of accepted abstracts.
• Application Process: Competitive selection by the ESMO Scientific Committee.

Where will the abstract be published?

The research from ESMO GI 2025 will be published in the ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress 2025 Abstract Book, which is a supplement to Annals of Oncology, the official journal of ESMO.
Annals of Oncology is a peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes high-impact research on oncology, including clinical trials, guidelines, and breakthrough studies in cancer treatment. Accepted abstracts and presentations from ESMO GI 2025 will also be available on them Congress Virtual Platform and later accessible to ESMO members on OncologyPRO.

ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress 2025 Registration

Registration Fees (21% Spanish VAT Included):

• Early Registration (until 16 April 2025)
  • ESMO Member: €344
  • Non-Member: €580
• Late Registration (until 4 June 2025)
  • ESMO Member: €483
  • Non-Member: €814
• Full Registration (from 5 June 2025)
  • ESMO Member: €729
  • Non-Member: €965

Important Deadlines:

• Early Registration Deadline: 16 April 2025
• Late Registration Deadline: 4 June 2025
• Full Registration Deadline: 5 June 2025
• Cancellation Deadline (free): 14 May 2025

source: www.esmo.org

Travelling to the ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancer Congress 2025

The ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancer Congress 2025 will take place at the CCIB – International Barcelona Convention Centre in Barcelona, Spain.

The Barcelona-El Prat Airport is located only 20 km away from CCIB, the venue is reachable:

• By taxi: 20-30 minutes depending on traffic
• By public transport: Bus A1 direction “Plaza Catalunya – Andana Central” stop in “Plaza de Espanya station, take the metro (line 1) to “Urquinaona” and change for line 4 to “El El Maresme – Fòrum”.

Activities in Barcelona, Spain: A Vibrant City of Culture and Adventure

Barcelona, Spain, is a city brimming with history, art, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, there’s always something exciting to do. Here are some must-see activities:

Explore the Iconic Sagrada Família: Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this stunning basilica is one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks. Its intricate architecture and towering spires are a must-see for any visitor. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Stroll Through Park Güell: Another masterpiece by Gaudí, Park Güell is a colorful and whimsical public park filled with sculptures, mosaic-tiled benches, and stunning views of the city. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

Wander the Gothic Quarter: The Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) is a labyrinth of narrow streets, medieval buildings, and hidden squares. It’s a great place to explore local shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as visit historical sites like the Barcelona Cathedral.

Relax at the Beach:Barcelona’s coastline offers several beautiful beaches, such as Barceloneta Beach, where you can enjoy the sun, take a swim, or have a refreshing drink by the sea.

Visit the Picasso Museum: Art lovers will appreciate the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century master. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in art history.

Discover the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc:The Magic Fountain offers a spectacular light and water show at night, set against the backdrop of the Montjuïc hill. It’s a popular event for locals and tourists alike.

Shop at La Boqueria Market: For a taste of local life, visit La Boqueria Market. This bustling food market is filled with fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies. It’s a perfect place for a casual bite or to pick up some Spanish specialties.

Tour Camp Nou: For football fans, a visit to Camp Nou, the home of FC Barcelona, is a must. You can tour the stadium, visit the museum, and learn about the club’s rich history.

Important Links

• ESMO GI 2025 Abstract Submission Guidelines
• ESMO GI 2025 General Information

Written by Nare Hovhannisyan, MD