Focusing on Standardized Oncology Care and Driving Innovation Toward a New Era of Precision Cancer Treatment
Editor’s Note:This September, the city of Jinan welcomed one of China’s most prestigious academic events in oncology. The 28th Annual Meeting of the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO 2025) officially opened on the morning of September 11th, gathering experts, clinicians, researchers, and industry representatives from across the country. Multiple academicians and internationally renowned oncologists attended the ceremony to discuss new progress in cancer prevention and treatment under the theme “Standardized Treatment, Innovation-Driven Leadership”—together charting a new global blueprint for the fight against cancer. Honoring the Journey: Balancing Heritage and Innovation
The opening ceremony began in a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere. An opening video reviewed CSCO’s development over the years, vividly retracing its journey “from foundation to flourishing.” What started with a single melanoma expert committee has now grown to 49 specialized committees. CSCO has progressed from early advocacy for standardized multidisciplinary treatment to publishing internationally influential clinical guidelines. From a national academic exchange platform, it has evolved into an international academic organization standing alongside ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) and ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology). Throughout its history, CSCO has remained committed to advancing standardization, precision, and internationalization in cancer care, contributing significantly to the progress of oncology in China.The opening ceremony was hosted by Professor Jun Guo, CSCO Vice President and Secretary-General and a professor at Peking University Cancer Hospital. After introducing the distinguished guests, Professor Guo emphasized that since its founding in 1997, CSCO has stayed closely aligned with China’s clinical needs. CSCO has not only witnessed the transformation of oncology in China—from its infancy to a position of strength—but has also actively driven that transformation. He highlighted that this year’s meeting will continue to uphold CSCO’s mission of providing a high-quality academic exchange platform for oncology professionals.
A Record-Breaking Conference
In his address, Professor Jinming Yu, CSCO President and Professor at Shandong Cancer Hospital, noted that this year’s meeting focuses on the most pressing issues in oncology. It features 75 academic sessions, more than 1,500 speakers, over 30 international experts from 15 countries, and the participation of more than 10 academicians. He emphasized that this is the largest, most specialized, and most internationally engaged CSCO meeting in history. Professor Yu also announced the release of a new electronic edition of the CSCO Guidelines Compendium, complementing the print version and further promoting standardized cancer care across China.
Greetings from ASCO and ESMO: Strengthening Global Collaboration
The opening ceremony also featured congratulatory video messages from Professor Fabrice André, President of ESMO, and Professor Eric Small, President of ASCO. Both praised CSCO’s growing influence in the global oncology community and expressed optimism about future collaboration.Professor André highlighted that ESMO, now with approximately 42,000 members worldwide, has a global reach that extends far beyond Europe. He emphasized the central role of education, research, and policy advocacy in advancing cancer prevention and care. He expressed gratitude to CSCO President Professor Jinming Yu and President-Elect Professor Zefei Jiang for their contributions to strengthening CSCO–ESMO collaboration. He also noted that ESMO President-Elect Professor Giuseppe Curigliano will attend the meeting in person to explore future cooperative opportunities.Professor Small, representing ASCO—an organization with more than 50,000 members from over 170 countries—extended warm congratulations on the opening of CSCO 2025. He reaffirmed ASCO’s mission to conquer cancer through research, education, and the advancement of clinical practice. Professor Small underlined his 2025–2026 presidential theme, “The Science and Practice of Translational Medicine: Improving Cancer Outcomes Worldwide,” and stressed the importance of cross-national and cross-cultural collaboration in driving progress. He also reflected on existing ASCO–CSCO initiatives, including joint symposia and dedicated sessions at the ASCO Annual Meeting, and affirmed ASCO’s commitment to deepening this strategic partnership. Both presidents emphasized their shared vision of working with CSCO to enhance patient outcomes and strengthen global cancer control efforts.
Recognizing Excellence: Annual Achievement and Best Paper Awards
The opening ceremony also included the presentation of the 2025 CSCO Annual Achievement Awards and Best Paper Awards, recognizing outstanding scientific breakthroughs and clinical contributions in oncology. These awards also highlight the innovation and vitality of young Chinese researchers. The ceremony was hosted by Professor Zefei Jiang, CSCO President-Elect and Professor at the PLA General Hospital, and brought the opening ceremony to a climax.
Looking Ahead
Following the award ceremony, the meeting transitioned into the academic sessions. Over the coming days, experts will engage in in-depth discussions on cutting-edge topics such as immuno-oncology, precision-targeted therapy, multidisciplinary collaboration, translational research, and innovative clinical strategies. Stay tuned for continuous coverage of these exciting developments.
