The 2025 South-North Forum – 7th Breast Cancer forum was recently held in Shanghai, co-hosted by the Shanghai Anti-Cancer Association and the China Anti-Cancer Association Committe of Breast Cancer Society(CACA-CBCS), with support from the Chinese Medical Association, Chinese Society of Oncology- Breast Oncology(CMA-CSO-BO). The event was co-organized by Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center and The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University. Upholding the values of openness, collaboration, and innovation, the forum has emerged as a dynamic hub of academic exchange in breast cancer research. Oncology Frontier invited Prof. Jin Feng, chair of the forum and a leading figure from The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, to reflect on the forum’s milestones, key highlights, and its role in nurturing the next generation of clinical scholars.

Oncology Frontier: As the forum’s chair, how do you reflect on the accomplishments of the South-North Forum over the past few years?

Prof. Jin Feng:From its early days of exploration to becoming a premier academic event in the field, the South-North Forum has always embraced the principles of openness, knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation. It has played a pivotal role in advancing breast cancer research and clinical practice in China.

More importantly, it has become a launchpad for young physicians. Looking back at our journey, we’ve witnessed a new generation of medical professionals rise and evolve through this platform. Each year, we invite renowned experts to share cutting-edge research, while also creating space for early-career scholars to present their original work. This dual approach facilitates academic inheritance and cross-generational dialogue.

The forum is not just a high-level scientific conference—it’s a platform for personal and professional growth. Many young clinicians have sharpened their critical thinking and practical skills here. In recent years, we’ve continued to innovate, introducing interactive segments like Midstream Momentum, Original China, and Digging Deeper. These formats emphasize interactivity, engage deeper with emerging technologies like AI and big data, and ensure the forum stays relevant in the modern academic landscape.

Looking ahead, the South-North Forum will remain a confluence of wisdom and a catalyst for innovation, striving to accelerate translational breakthroughs and enhance breast cancer care in China.

Oncology Frontier: As a member of the presidium for this year’s “Clinical Hotspot Voting” segment, could you share your thoughts on the key discussion points?

Prof. Jin Feng:The “Clinical Hotspot Voting” session focused on some of the most pressing issues in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, aiming to build expert consensus and guide clinical decision-making.

Among the topics, I was particularly interested in the optimization of neoadjuvant therapy strategies. This includes tailoring treatment approaches according to different molecular subtypes and exploring the role of immunotherapy and targeted therapy in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HER2-positive subtypes.

Another major area of interest was the integration of minimally invasive and precision treatment techniques—such as optimized axillary management, strategies for preventing post-surgical recurrence, and tailored care approaches for elderly breast cancer patients.

The purpose of this session was to generate consensus from experts in various fields and to apply this insight to real-world clinical scenarios. By bridging evidence-based medicine with frontline practice, we aim to support individualized treatment strategies for breast cancer patients and improve clinical outcomes.

Oncology Frontier: As one of the most recognized academic platforms in breast oncology, the South-North Forum has always been committed to providing opportunities for learning, exchange, and visibility for early- and mid-career scholars. What advice do you have for young investigators working in breast cancer research, and what role will the South-North Forum continue to play in advancing the field?

Prof. Jin Feng:Young and mid-career researchers are the driving force behind breast cancer research and clinical progress. Their development and breakthroughs are vital to the advancement of the discipline. First and foremost, it’s crucial that they establish a strong foundation in clinical practice and maintain a keen eye for unmet clinical needs. Research and innovation should always begin with real-world problems.

At the same time, they should maintain academic foresight and actively explore interdisciplinary fields, such as artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and precision medicine. Embracing cross-disciplinary collaboration will be essential. They should also focus on teamwork and translational research—transforming basic science into clinical applications that deliver real-world value.

Looking ahead, the South-North Forum will continue to serve as a vital academic platform. We aim to build an even more influential meeting model that attracts leading experts and broadens participation. We will also enhance sections like Original China to support original innovation and help promote Chinese-led research onto the global stage.

Moreover, we are committed to strengthening talent development programs for young scholars. This includes providing more opportunities for academic exchange, resources for research collaboration, and dedicated mentorship. Our goal is to empower the new generation of breast cancer experts to reach new heights and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of precision and personalized care in breast oncology.

Jin Feng

Chair Professor, Chief Physician, Doctoral Supervisor Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University

  • Chair, Breast Cancer Committee, Liaoning Anti-Cancer Association
  • Chair, Breast Surgery Branch, Liaoning Medical Association
  • Honorary Deputy Leader, Breast Cancer Group, Chinese Medical Association Oncology Branch
  • Vice Chair, Breast Cancer Committee, Chinese Anti-Cancer Association
  • Executive Member, CSCO Breast Cancer Committee
  • Member, Breast Surgery Group, Chinese Medical Association Surgery Branch
  • Deputy Chair, Breast Surgery Expert Group, Chinese Medical Doctor Association Surgery Branch
  • Vice President, Beijing Breast Disease Prevention and Treatment Society
  • Vice Chair, Breast Cancer Committee, China Association for Health Promotion and Education
  • Chair, Breast Surgery Group, Liaoning Medical Association Surgery Branch

Xinmiao Yu

Professor, Chief Physician, Master’s Supervisor Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University

  • Deputy Convener, Young Scholars Group, Breast Oncology Branch, Chinese Medical Association
  • Youth Expert, Breast Cancer Committee, Chinese Anti-Cancer Association
  • Member, Youth Committee, Oncology Branch, Liaoning Medical Association
  • Deputy Chair, Breast Oncology Committee, Shenyang Medical Doctor Association
  • Standing Committee Member, Breast Cancer Committee, Shenyang Anti-Cancer Association
  • Standing Committee Member, Breast Reconstruction Committee, China Association for Health Promotion and Education
  • Member, Breast Disease Committee, China Association for Health Promotion and Education
  • Secretary and Member, Committee on Precision Treatment and Clinical Research in Breast Oncology, Liaoning Society for Cell Biology
  • Standing Member, Committee on Breast Aesthetics and Reconstructive Surgery, Liaoning Life Sciences Society
  • Youth Editorial Board Member, JCO Chinese Edition – Breast Cancer
  • Postdoctoral Fellow, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
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Last updated on 2025.03.29