Prof Jarushka Naidoo
Professor of Medical Oncology; Consultant Medical Oncologist at Beaumont RCSI Cancer Centre Dublin, Chair of the Cancer Trials Ireland Lung DSSG
Ireland took a leading role at the world’s largest lung cancer conference this year, with insights that will shape both global and Irish oncology research.
This September, I had the honour of serving as one of the Chairs of the IASLC World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC 2025) in Barcelona, the world’s largest meeting dedicated to lung cancer.
Sharing this role with Dr Noemí Reguart, Prof Umberto Malapelle and Prof Isabelle Opitz was a privilege and milestone for Ireland. It highlights the standing of Irish oncology in the international community and our growing contribution through clinical trials and collaborative research.
Key highlights from Barcelona
Several breakthroughs unveiled at WCLC 2025 could change lung cancer standards of care.
Combination therapy in EGFR-mutant lung cancer: The phase III FLAURA2 trial showed improved overall survival with combination therapy. Results suggest combined approaches may offer deeper, longer-lasting benefits for selected patients.
Long-term survival with immunotherapy: Five-year results from the Phase II NADIM study showed exceptional outcomes, with survival rates near 70%. These data confirm that early-stage lung cancer can be curable for some patients.
Lung cancer screening: A major analysis of high-risk individuals (with smoking history, lung conditions or advanced age) in Manchester suggested extending screening eligibility. With Ireland’s first lung cancer screening pilot now underway in North Dublin and the Northeast (Lung Health Check), sponsored by the Irish Cancer Society, Beaumont Hospital, RCSI and the EU4Health SOLACE consortium, these findings are timely as Ireland evaluates national screening strategies.
the Phase II NADIM study showed exceptional outcomes, with survival rates near 70%.
Over 35 Irish delegates attended WCLC, including presenters from clinical, research and advocacy backgrounds. Their work showcased Ireland’s growing multidisciplinary strength in lung cancer care and its role in shaping future clinical trials.
Bringing global insights home
As Chair of the Lung Disease-Specific Subgroup of Cancer Trials Ireland, I lead national collaboration to develop and deliver new lung cancer trials. Lessons from Barcelona will directly inform our portfolio, refining trial design, broadening eligibility and aligning with cutting-edge science.
Our challenge now is to turn momentum into real progress so that international breakthroughs translate into longer lives and better outcomes for people with lung cancer in Ireland.
