IMPAKT 2009: the launch
Jointly hosted by BIG and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), IMPAKT focuses on improving care and knowledge through translational research. It represents a strong commitment by a growing and united European multidisciplinary breast cancer alliance to work together to keep pace with cutting-edge advances in breast cancer research.The first edition of the IMPAKT Breast Cancer Conference took place on 7-9 May 2009 in Brussels, Belgium.
The first edition of IMPAKT was a great success, with almost 700 scientists from 67 countries attending it: this interest underlines the need for exploring models of international collaboration to translate the benefit of new scientific developments into better, even more tailored treatments for patients sooner.
Training course for “young” oncologists
The conference was preceded by a 1-day training course for early-career oncologists working in breast cancer translational research: more than 70 scientists had the opportunity to learn about the activities of BIG and ESMO and to get acquainted with new technologies in translational research.
Scientific programme
The 2-day programme saw the participation of world renowned breast cancer specialists who addressed timely themes such as molecular determinants of tumour invasion, overcoming endocrine resistance, the revolution brought by “omics” in translational research and so on.
Ambassador Nancy Brinker, founder of Susan G Komen for the Cure - the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists - also participated in the scientific programme of IMPAKT, speaking about Komen's commitment to research.
Networking opportunities
Participants had the opportunity to meet and share ideas in a more informal way during the ESMO Foundation gala dinner and at the concert organised by the Fonds Jean-Claude Heuson charity to raise funds for the benefit of international breast cancer research and BIG. Her Majesty the Queen of Belgium and Her Royal Highness Princess Mathilde participated in this concert.