Doha 17 October 2023: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) recently concluded the third annual Best of ASCO conference. The event, held on 13 and 14 October, brought together esteemed oncology experts, healthcare professionals, and researchers to explore the latest cancer care and research innovations. This remarkable gathering of oncology experts showcased the commitment of Qatar's medical community to advancing cancer care within the country. Over two intensive days, attendees engaged in insightful discussions, shared expertise, and collaborated on shaping the future of cancer care.
Commenting on the conference, Dr. Mohamed Ussama Al Homsi, Deputy Medical Director for Education, Research & Quality at the National Center for Cancer Care & Research (NCCCR), and the Conference Chairman 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."
Dr. Salha Bujassoum Al-Bader, Chairperson of Medical Oncology & Palliative Care Medicine at NCCCR 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”.
Dr. Anas Ahmad Hamad, Director of the Pharmacy Department at NCCCR and Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee, stated: “The 3rd version of Best of ASCO in Qatar was a huge success by all measures. More than 250 cancer care providers and researchers participated in the event. Seven scientific sessions included 34 lectures delivered by multidisciplinary experts in the field. Oncology researchers from around the country presented 34 scientific posters covering different translational and clinical research topics. That is in addition to the great venue, engaging exhibition, warm atmosphere, and professional networking”.
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.