BUDAPEST – With a history of medical innovation stretching from Ignaz Semmelweis’s groundbreaking antiseptic methods to Endre Mester’s pioneering work in laser therapy, Budapest has long played a role in advancing medical science. This May, the tradition continues as the paediatric oncology community gathers for the 6th SIOP Europe Annual Meeting in Budapest – the leading event in Europe for professionals dedicated to childhood cancer. Taking place from May 12–16, 2025, the meeting will feature breakthrough research, expert panels, and discussions on treatment advancements shaping the future of paediatric oncology.
As childhood cancer treatment evolves, this year’s meeting will focus on cross-border collaboration, clinical trial updates, and treatment innovation. With 131 total sessions, the meeting provides a comprehensive view of the latest developments and challenges. Its format is unique, featuring interactive workshops, novel session formats, and dedicated forums, allowing working groups and clinical trial groups to debate and disseminate findings from high-quality research conducted across Europe.
The Annual Meeting is structured to allow tumor-specific groups to meet within their specialties while encouraging cross-tumor collaboration. Eighteen European Clinical Trial Groups, each specializing in one or more tumor types, will hold open and joint sessions to share best practices and strengthen research partnerships. On Wednesday, plenary sessions will bring together specialists to explore cross-tumor topics, including next-generation nuclear medicine imaging and image-guided therapies, informed consent, the role of sport and exercise, and breaking down barriers to enrolling children in early clinical trials.
Prof. Uta Dirksen, President of SIOPE, emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing paediatric oncology:
“Paediatric cancers are rare, and each case is unique. The more we can integrate innovative approaches into treatment plans, the more effective we can be in tailoring therapies for children.”
Discussions will center on new treatment strategies and how research findings are being integrated into clinical practice. The meeting will also address the challenges of treating rare paediatric cancers, where complex cases require tailored approaches as well as international collaboration. Experts will share findings from recent studies and explore how treatment innovations can be applied more effectively.
A key focus of the SIOP Europe Annual Meeting is ensuring that scientific breakthroughs translate into clinical practice. Late-breaking clinical trial data will be presented, offering insights into emerging treatment protocols and therapeutic strategies that could soon shape patient care. In addition to its scientific and clinical programme, the Annual Meeting also supports professional development across all career stages. Educational sessions organised by the SIOP Europe Educational Committee, along with joint forums connecting early-career professionals and senior experts, provide space for knowledge exchange and mentorship.
Cross-tumor collaboration remains central to these discussions, particularly in addressing treatment resistance and long-term effects. Prof. Dirksen highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing between specialists: “There are lessons to be learned across disciplines. Whether it’s understanding how one approach is working in certain cancers or how different techniques are helping to refine therapies, these exchanges are essential for moving the field forward.”
In addition to advancing research and treatment strategies, the meeting will also address broader issues shaping the field, including artificial intelligence in oncology, epidemiology, drug safety, radiation oncology, and data protection.
Reflecting CCI Europe’s ongoing role as a core partner of the meeting, sessions co-organised with SIOPE will focus on communication, patient involvement, informed consent, and breaking taboos—ensuring that scientific progress remains closely connected to the realities of care. CCI Europe will lead a dedicated track on Thursday and Friday, with a programme designed to reflect the priorities of childhood cancer patients, survivors, and their families.
Thursday includes an opening session, an introduction to CCI Europe’s structure and activities, and a joint meeting with SIOP Europe Ambassadors. Friday’s agenda features a series of sessions and workshops on survivorship, peer support, and national-level advocacy. Topics include transitions in care, grief and loss, and the role of parent organisations in supporting families across Europe. A particular focus will be placed on cross-border collaboration and the links between long-term health, brain development, and survivorship—offering a space for practical exchange between advocates, professionals, and caregivers.
With its focus on treatment innovation, survivorship, and cross-tumor collaboration, the 2025 SIOP Europe Annual Meeting offers a clear opportunity to advance shared goals and reduce the burden of childhood cancer. Professionals across the field are encouraged to register and take part in shaping the next steps for paediatric oncology in Europe.
The Annual Meeting will take place from May 12–16, 2025, in Budapest, Hungary. Registration and additional details are available at www.siopeurope.eu.
About the Organizers
The European Society for Paediatric Oncology (SIOPE) is the single united European organization representing all professionals working in childhood cancer. With over 2,700 members across 36 countries, SIOPE leads the way in ensuring the best possible care and outcomes for children and adolescents with cancer in Europe. More information can be found at www.siope.eu.
Childhood Cancer International – Europe (CCI Europe) represents childhood cancer parent and survivor groups as well as other childhood cancer organizations across 35 European countries. CCI Europe works with stakeholders to ensure that children and adolescents with cancer receive optimal treatment with minimal long-term health consequences. More information is available at www.ccieurope.eu.
Disclosure: This short article was prepared by touchONCOLOGY in collaboration with the European Society for Paediatric Oncology (SIOPE). No fees or funding were associated with its publication.
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