The 2026 NCODA Global Oncology and Haematology Congress convened oncology leaders from across healthcare systems, academia, and industry at a time when cancer care is being reshaped by both unprecedented innovation and persistent structural challenges. Across sessions, a consistent theme emerged. Progress in oncology is no longer defined solely by scientific discovery, but by the systems that enable or constrain its delivery.
Drug Shortages: A Growing Threat to Standard of Care
A critical discussion focused on global oncology drug shortages, particularly the vulnerability of generic injectable therapies. Michael Ganio, PharmD, from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (USA), and Lynne Nakashima, BSc(Pharm), PharmD, RPh, FCAPhO, FISOPP, from BC Cancer (Canada), emphasized that many foundational chemotherapy agents remain clinically effective and cost-efficient, yet are often treated as low-value commodities in the market.
Manufacturing complexity, low profit margins, and supplier consolidation have created fragile supply chains. The impact on patient care is significant. Drug shortages can force treatment changes, increase the risk of medication errors, raise costs, and add workload for care teams.
Canada’s national strategy was highlighted as one model for mitigation. This approach includes mandatory shortage reporting, controlled importation of alternative products, conservation strategies, and restrictions on exporting drugs that could worsen shortages. However, sustainable solutions will require broader global coordination, increased supplier diversity, and purchasing models that incentivize long-term manufacturing resilience.
Artificial Intelligence in Oncology Practice
Advances in artificial intelligence are beginning to influence oncology care delivery across multiple domains. In a session moderated by Eoin Tabb, MPharm, of the Health Service Executive and Chair of the Ireland Pharmacy Haematology Oncology Society (Ireland), speakers explored real-world applications of AI in clinical settings.
Bastiaan Buijtenhuijs, MPharm, PhD, representing iQ Health Tech and the British Oncology Pharmacy Association (England), Douglas Flora, MD, from St. Elizabeth Healthcare (USA), and Aaron Hannon of Luminate (Ireland) discussed how AI is being applied in diagnostics, clinical decision support, and workflow optimization.
These technologies offer the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve clinical decision-making, and streamline operations. At the same time, regulatory considerations, data governance, and integration into existing workflows remain key challenges. The discussion emphasized that the effectiveness of AI will depend on how well these tools are implemented across diverse healthcare systems.
Innovation, Regulation, and Access
A multidisciplinary panel examined the intersection of regulatory, clinical, and commercialization factors shaping oncology innovation. The session was moderated by Dave Shanahan of Athena Pharmaceuticals (Ireland) and included Steven Bloom of Werewolf Therapeutics (USA), Dylan Burke, MPharm, of Navi Group (Ireland), Marty Whalen, MBA, of Bristol Myers Squibb (USA), and Michael Ybarra, MD, of Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (USA).
Over the past two decades, advances in diagnostics, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy have significantly improved survival and patient outcomes. However, continued progress depends on sustained investment in research, supportive regulatory environments, and healthcare systems that recognize the value of innovation.
Global competition in oncology development is increasing, with countries such as China expanding clinical trial activity and research output. At the same time, access to innovative therapies remains a challenge. Pricing pressures, reimbursement policies, and health technology assessments can delay or limit patient access.
Precision medicine continues to shape the future of oncology care. Genomic testing and biomarker-driven treatment approaches are improving patient selection and treatment outcomes, but they also require investment in diagnostic infrastructure and alignment across stakeholders.
Keeping Pace with Rapid Drug Development
The accelerating pace of oncology drug development presents ongoing challenges for clinicians and healthcare systems. Julie Gralow, MD, FACP, FASCO, from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (USA), provided a review of anticipated drug approvals and outlined practical strategies for staying current.
With an expanding pipeline and increasingly rapid approval timelines, maintaining clinical readiness requires structured approaches to horizon scanning and continuous education. Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to ensure that new therapies are integrated safely and effectively into patient care.
A System Under Transformation
Taken together, the discussions at the NCODA Global Congress reflect a field at an inflection point. Scientific and technological advances are redefining what is possible in cancer care, yet structural challenges continue to influence how those advances are delivered.
The future of oncology will depend on coordinated efforts across stakeholders. Strengthening supply chains, integrating emerging technologies responsibly, and ensuring timely access to innovation are critical priorities. As the field continues to evolve, the focus must remain on building resilient, adaptable systems capable of supporting both current standards and future progress – because quality oncology care knows no borders.
NCODA has announced that the Global Congress will return to Ireland in Spring 2027, with dates to be announced soon.