The 2025 MLS Washington, DC | Updates in Thoracic Oncology from the Masters (MLS_DC25) conference took place on September 27, 2025, in Washington, D.C., bringing together leading voices in thoracic oncology. Experts delivered updates on the latest advances in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), highlighting emerging therapies, novel biomarkers, and evolving treatment strategies.
The program featured expert-led case discussions, interactive panels, and opportunities for oncologists to exchange insights on translating research into clinical practice. Attendees praised the event’s engaging format and the depth of knowledge shared, with special recognition given to co-chairs Prof. Nagla Abdel Karim and Dr. Janakiraman Subramanian for guiding the sessions.
By spotlighting both scientific breakthroughs and practical applications, MLS_DC25 reinforced its role as a key meeting point for clinicians and researchers working to advance lung cancer care.
Estela Rodriguez, Associate Director of Community Outreach and Co-Lead of Thoracic Site Disease Group of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, shared some key highlights from MLS Washington, DC Conference:
“Fred Hirsch describes the advances of Precision Lung cancer from early stage to late stage disease. moving targeted therapies to earlier stages understanding role of co-mutations.”
“Dr Kei Suzuki presents on solutions to lung cancer screening:
- EMR alerts
- Improving tobacco history documentation
- Understanding impact of SDH
- Comprehensive screening clinics
- Find pts where they are ( ED, cardiology, preop clinics).”
“Arturo LoAIza-Bonilla gives an excellent overview of Artificial Intelligence solutions for lung cancer care, imaging, drug devt.
And how big data will drive new discoveries.”
” Co-chair Janakiraman Subramanian presents on Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) monitoring in lung cancer as a tool to identify patients who could benefit from escalation/de-escalation and growing number of trials using MRD monitoring.”
“Up next Chul Kim Director Of Thoracic Oncology at Georgetown Lombardi presents the success story of ALK+ drug development and the importance of selecting the therapy w most durable responses upfront.”
“Salma Jabbour presents on SBRT for early stage lung cancer and potential role of risk stratification , ctDNA to identify pts likely to respond.”
“Dr Prashanth Ashok Kumar gives excellent overview of Neoadjuvant Therapies for lung cancer with original art depicting immunotherapy activity.”
“Another great 1st Line EGFR therapy debate: Dr Sid Devarakonda presents FLAURA2 (chemo+osi) and why is it superior than MARIPOSA vs Vamsi Velcheti
- chemo role in targeting high risk groups ( cns activity, comutations)
- manageable toxicity
- crossover issues.”
“Vamsi Velchet excellent rebuttal on why MARIPOSA (amivantamab+lazertinib) is a better 1stLine EGFR lung cancer option from a precision medicine perspective- addressing resistance biology and not only cytoreduction to drive survival.”
“Janakiraman Subramanian walks us thru chemoIO first line options for NSCLC and where ICI treatments fall short.
We must find better strategies for our patients!.”
“Great real-world lung cancer case presentations by Inova Health Hematology Oncology Fellows Drs Kevin Li , Irene O Pokuua, Phillip Coffin.”
“Fawzi Abu Rous provides great overview of Antibody-Drug Conjugates Mechanism of Action and Resistance.”
“Rising star Dr Vanya Aggarwal presents an update on RET, MET, BRAF targeted therapies in lung cancer.”
“Great to catch up with Stephen Liu, Nagla Abdel Karim, Salma Jabbour.”
More posts featuring Estela Rodriguez.
