Markus Kosch, Head Oncology Europe and Canada at Daiichi Sankyo Europe GmbH, shared on LinkedIn:
“20 years ago, when I was still working in the clinic, many of the treatment options for cancer we discussed at ESMO – European Society for Medical Oncology would have been hard to imagine.
Seeing how science continues to push boundaries gives me genuine hope and optimism for the future.
But ESMO also reinforced 2 other important perspectives for me.
1st, Innovation Has Became Truly Global
From emerging research in China to increasingly interconnected healthcare systems, scientific collaboration and manufacturing networks – progress in cancer care no longer happens in isolation.
This is both an opportunity and a responsibility: Europe has to act united and stand its ground to contribute to science, manufacturing and progress in healthcare.
2nd, Progress in Science Does Not Automaticlly Mean Progress for Patients
Despite the remarkable advances we have seen, significant unmet needs remain. And in too many places, it still takes far too long for scientific breakthroughs to translate into meaningful benefits for patients.
That gap is something we cannot afford to accept – and which reminded me that we need to keep healthcare and cancer care high on the societal and political agenda.
I left ESMO with a strong sense of optimism. But also with a renewed sense of urgency.
Because the question is no longer only what science can make possible.
It is how quickly we can turn that possibility into progress for patients.”
You can also read: After the Applause: Six ESMO Trials that Changed Cancer Treatment.
