The third annual Best of ASCO conference, held in Doha affirmed the commitment of Qatar's medical community to advancing cancer care within the country, embracing emerging therapeutics, and enhancing symptom management and survivorship support.
The conference, organised by Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) brought together esteemed oncology experts, healthcare professionals, and researchers to explore the latest cancer care and research innovations.
Over two intensive days, attendees engaged in insightful discussions, shared expertise, and collaborated on shaping the future of cancer care. Commenting on the conference, Deputy Medical Director for Education, Research & Quality at the National Center for Cancer Care & Research (NCCCR), and the Conference Chairman Dr Mohamed Ussama al-Homsi, said: "The Best of ASCO 2023 in Qatar was a resounding success, bringing together oncology experts, researchers, and healthcare professionals over two impactful days. We've collectively explored the latest advancements in cancer care, ensuring Qatar remains at the forefront of oncology excellence. This esteemed conference was a testament to our commitment to brilliance in cancer care. By coming together and sharing knowledge, we are making significant strides toward improving the lives of patients with cancer in Qatar."
Chairperson of Medical Oncology & Palliative Care Medicine at NCCCR Dr Salha Bujassoum al-Bader said: "It was a privilege to be part of the Best of ASCO 2023 in Qatar. The conference served as a dynamic platform where attendees engaged in insightful discussions, fostering innovation and progress in the fight against cancer. The resounding success of this event confirms Qatar's dedication to focusing on addressing the specific needs of cancer patients, embracing emerging therapeutics, and enhancing symptom management and survivorship support. It has made an enduring impact on the landscape of cancer care, promising a brighter future for all affected by this challenging disease".
Some key highlights of this high-profile conference encompass various topics and objectives. Notably, the conference tailored its subjects to align with the Qatar Cancer Strategy 2023-2026 that was launched earlier this year.
It also addressed the specific needs for cancer services, addressing common and rare cancers, and comprehensively covering the entire spectrum of cancer patient care. Attendees explored the implications of emerging developmental therapeutics such as immunotherapy, precision medicine, and tumor molecular biology on cancer practice and research at HMC.
Additionally, the event explored the latest approaches to symptom management and survivorship, intending to shape the development and enhancement of cancer services within HMC. The success of this year's conference underscores Qatar's healthcare community's dedication to staying at the forefront of oncology research and treatment, making significant strides toward improving the lives of cancer patients in Qatar.
The Best of ASCO meetings initiative extends the reach of the rich knowledge from the biggest annual oncology meeting in the world to countries worldwide, allowing local audiences to access lectures tailored to their patient population and treatment landscape. Last year, Qatar proudly hosted the Best of ASCO 2022 as a hybrid event. This year, we were thrilled to have it held as a fully in-person event.
