ESMO Latin America Summit: Bridging Science and Care Across the Region

The ESMO Latin America Summit, held on 11–12 April 2025 in Lima, Peru, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to improve cancer care across Latin America. Organized by the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), this event brings together a diverse group of oncologists, researchers, policymakers, patient advocates, and industry leaders from all corners of the region. The goal? To share ideas, tackle the pressing challenges in cancer care, and explore opportunities for progress.

A Unified Effort for Oncology Leadership in the Region

As cancer rates continue to rise in Latin America, the need for unified, evidence-based strategies has never been more urgent. The summit provides a much-needed platform for:

• Sharing cutting-edge research that directly addresses the region’s unique needs

• Highlighting the disparities in access to diagnostics and treatment

• Encouraging collaboration between national cancer societies and institutions

• Inspiring the next generation of oncology professionals through education and mentorship

What sets this summit apart is its focus on balancing global advancements in oncology with the realities on the ground in Latin America. Whether it’s tailoring international treatment guidelines to the region’s health systems or promoting local research, the summit ensures that all discussions are not just relevant, but sustainable for the future of the region.

Key Topics on the Agenda

The summit covers a wide range of topics that are crucial for the future of oncology in Latin America, such as:

• The integration of precision oncology in middle-income countries

• The impact of multidisciplinary care in improving patient outcomes

• Advances in early detection and prevention programs

• Strengthening healthcare systems for equitable access to care

• Giving a platform to patient voices in shaping cancer policies

Special attention is given to the cancers that have the highest prevalence in the region, including breast, cervical, gastric, and gastrointestinal cancers.

Reflections from the Frontlines

Social media buzzed with excitement as oncologists and healthcare professionals shared their thoughts, insights, and reflections on the summit. Here’s a glimpse of what stood out:

Dr. Antonio Calles

“Full house during the Lung Cancer session at ESMO – Eur. Oncology Summit Latin America in Lima, Perú  cochairing with Dr. Luis Mas, and presenting Dr. Carlos Aliaga and Dr. Marco Gálvez.“

“ESMOSummit Latin America 2025  Lima, Peru.  April 11 and 12, 2025 Join the key oncology event in the region.  Register now“

“ESMO SUMMIT LATIN AMERICA PERU 2025 has started ☆ It’s incredible to finally be part of this event in my country ☆ Passion for Oncology as a motto ☆ ESMO – Eur. Oncology, Sociedad Peruana de Oncología Médica – SPOM.”

“Closing a wolderful ESMO Latin America Summit! Congratulations to ESMO – Eur. Oncology and Sociedad Peruana de Oncología Médica – SPOM. I’m very proud to be part! See you next year in Bogotá.“

These reflections highlight the summit’s impact not only as a scientific forum but also as a catalyst for meaningful regional collaboration and advocacy.

A Hub for Regional Collaboration

Beyond its scientific value, the summit has become a space for critical dialogue between stakeholders. Ministries of Health, cancer foundations, and NGOs frequently participate to align national strategies with the evolving oncology landscape. ESMO’s partnerships with local medical societies have also enabled the translation of knowledge into practice at the community level.

Investing in the Future

One of the highlights of the summit is its commitment to young oncologists. Through dedicated fellowships, travel grants, and abstract presentations, ESMO ensures that emerging talent from Latin America has access to global networks and educational opportunities. This investment in capacity-building is essential for long-term impact.

A Shared Vision

The ESMO Latin America Summit is more than a conference—it’s a movement. A movement toward equity in cancer care. A movement that recognizes the power of collaboration. And a movement grounded in the belief that high-quality cancer care should not be a privilege, but a right, no matter where a patient lives.

As Latin America continues to face the dual challenge of rising cancer burdens and limited healthcare resources, platforms like this summit are crucial. They don’t just inspire change—they make it possible.

And for more reflections, expert interviews, and real-time updates from global oncology events, make sure to follow OncoDaily on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and YouTube. We’re here to connect the cancer care community—one conversation at a time.

Let’s keep building together.