MASCC Meeting Opens with Focus on Supportive Care Innovation

Darcy Burbage, an oncology clinical nurse specialist, shared highlights from the opening day of The Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) meeting via LinkedIn. The event featured opening ceremonies, scientific sessions, and networking opportunities.

"Supportive Care Makes Excellent Cancer Care Possible."
— Past President Dorothy OKeefe

New Leadership Takes the Helm

Alexandre Chan, PharmD, PhD, MPH, officially began his term as MASCC President, succeeding Florian Scotté, who was thanked for his previous leadership.

Key Scientific Sessions

Deborah Kirk presented on cancer-related fatigue in end-of-life patients, while AProf Hannah Wardill, PhD, discussed the role of the gut microbiome in predicting treatment toxicity.

Massimo Di Maio examined the impact of digital tools and artificial intelligence on clinical workflow.

Patient Voices in the Spotlight

Patient partners Jill Feldman, Tingting Z., and Ricki Menzies shared their personal insights, underscoring the importance of lived experience in shaping care.

Addressing Disparities and Stigma

One session reported that nurse navigation programs implemented with indigenous individuals with cancer led to decreased distress.

Another session addressed stigma in cancer patients—including guilt, fear, shame, and isolation—noting that the impact is significantly higher among individuals with lower income.