Alberto Costa has played a central role in shaping European oncology policy and education. He serves as Chief Executive Officer of the European School of Oncology (ESO), a nonprofit institution founded in 1982 dedicated to advancing professional education in cancer medicine across Europe and globally. He previously served as Secretary General of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and was actively involved in the European Commission’s Europe Against Cancer programme. He is a Board Member of the European Cancer Organisation (ECO), where he currently leads the Quality of Cancer Care Programme.
A trained cancer surgeon with a focus on breast cancer, Dr. Costa established and directed leading EUSOMA-certified breast units in Italy and Switzerland, co-founded Europa Donna – the European Breast Cancer Coalition, Europa Uomo for prostate cancer advocacy, and the Advanced Breast Cancer (ABC) Conference with Fatima Cardoso. He continues his philanthropic engagement through initiatives such as Gomitolorosa and the European Wool Exchange (EWE), reflecting a broader commitment to social innovation and sustainability beyond medicine.
The 100 Most Influential People in Oncology in 2025 recognizes the changemakers in cancer care who have helped shape current practice in oncology and continue to drive innovation and research towards better outcomes, advocacy, philanthropy, leadership and education. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Influential People in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for the results of special category nominations to be announced.
