In 1974, David T. Carr, Oleg S. Selawry, Lawrence Broder, Clifton Mountain, and George Higgins recruited over 250 founding members from around the world and organized the first meeting of the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) in Florence, Italy. Fifty years later, the field of lung cancer has seen countless scientific advancements. Conference Chairs Sandip Patel, Linda Martin, Narjust Florez, and Fabio Ynoe de Moraes have developed the educational agenda for the 2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC), which will not only highlight the latest scientific discoveries in thoracic oncology but also celebrate the historic progress achieved by IASLC over the past five decades.2024 WCLC Conference Chairs
In an international media interview, Sandip Patel from the University of California, San Diego, and Fabio Ynoe de Moraes from Queen’s University, Kingston, provided more details about the 2024 WCLC.
01 WCLC Returns to North America After Several Years: What Are You Most Looking Forward to at the 2024 WCLC and IASLC’s 50th Anniversary Events?
Dr. Ynoe de Moraes: I am incredibly excited for the 2024 WCLC in San Diego, marking WCLC’s return to North America after several years. The 50th anniversary of IASLC makes this WCLC even more special, offering an opportunity to celebrate IASLC’s significant contributions to advancing thoracic oncology research over the past fifty years. Personally, I look forward to engaging in vibrant exchanges of ideas, reconnecting with colleagues from around the world, and experiencing the energy that only in-person meetings can provide.
Dr. Patel: I am thrilled to celebrate IASLC’s 50th anniversary alongside colleagues and friends from around the globe. While there is still much work to be done in treating patients, it is important to reflect on the tremendous progress IASLC has made in combating lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
02 As Conference Chairs, Which Advancements or Research Areas Do You Hope to Highlight at the 2024 WCLC?
Dr. Patel: We aim to emphasize the global collaboration needed to combat thoracic malignancies under the leadership of IASLC. IASLC stands out in uniting the international community in the fight against lung cancer. In particular, we hope to showcase research conducted in populations with unmet medical needs, as well as the latest advancements in lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment.
Dr. Ynoe de Moraes: As conference chairs, our primary goal is to highlight the most groundbreaking advancements in the field of thoracic oncology, especially in key research areas such as precision medicine, immunotherapy, early detection, radiation oncology, and novel treatment approaches, including the use of artificial intelligence. Our goal is to provide a platform for presenting cutting-edge science and fostering academic exchange to drive new collaborations and innovations in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of thoracic cancers.
03 Regarding the Educational Sessions at WCLC 2024, What New Topics Have Emerged from the Latest Scientific Advancements in Thoracic Oncology?
Dr. Ynoe de Moraes: While planning WCLC 2024, several new topics emerged from the latest advancements in thoracic oncology, including the integration of immunotherapy into neoadjuvant treatment, advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques, the impact of radiation therapy on cancer control and cure, and the role of personalized medicine in improving patient outcomes. Additionally, there is a focus on addressing healthcare disparities, adopting new technologies, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all patients.
Dr. Patel: In terms of prevention and treatment models for thoracic malignancies, advances in biomarker analysis, staging, and artificial intelligence have become common themes. Furthermore, a significant portion of global thoracic malignancy research focuses on integrating all relevant disciplines—from lung cancer screening to the treatment of metastatic disease—a trend evident in the abstracts submitted.
04 Which Sessions or Presentations Are You Most Excited About at WCLC 2024? Are There Any “Must-See” Talks?
Dr. Patel: I believe the WCLC plenary sessions—especially the Special Plenary Session: 50 Years of IASLC—are definitely worth attending. There are also many exciting presentations and educational sessions. Given the breadth and depth of the conference agenda, we hope there is something for everyone!
Dr. Ynoe de Moraes: There are many sessions and presentations at WCLC 2024 that I am particularly excited about. For me, the “must-see” talks include keynote addresses from leading experts in the field, panel discussions on the latest clinical trials, innovative research in radiation therapy, and studies combining radiation therapy with systemic treatment or surgery for localized/metastatic thoracic cancers. The plenary sessions, in particular, may provide highly impactful scientific evidence and insights that could reshape the future of thoracic cancer treatment and care.
05 Beyond the Scientific Agenda, Which Social Activities at WCLC 2024 Are Worth Looking Forward To?
Dr. Ynoe de Moraes: Social activities offer valuable opportunities to build relationships with fellow researchers, clinicians, and industry partners. The IASLC 50th Anniversary Celebration is a chance to celebrate our collective achievements and foster a sense of community, making it a conference highlight. Additionally, informal gatherings and social events are perfect for exchanging ideas and discussing potential collaborations in a relaxed setting.
Dr. Patel: I believe the IASLC 50th Anniversary Celebration will be a unique and memorable social event, and it is the activity I am most looking forward to amidst all the exciting events on the agenda.
