Alfaisal University hosted the Middle East Society of Radiation Therapy and Oncology (MESTRO) conference from November 27th – 29th, an event that brought together over 2,000 global participants, with over 80 international and national speakers including elite scientists, medical professionals, and industry leaders, to discuss advancements and challenges in the field of oncology and radiotherapy.
The conference attracted participation from prominent oncology centers across the GCC, including Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE, as well as globally recognized institutions. Distinguished speakers included a former Nobel Prize candidate in medicine, who led a Japanese delegation in presenting pioneering work in cancer research. This marked the first participation of Japan’s oncology specialists in a radiotherapy conference outside Western countries, reflecting MESTRO’s growing international reputation.
The extensive scientific program included diverse workshops, talks and exhibits in specialized scientific tracks, including: diagnostic and interventional radiology, medical physics, nuclear medicine, radiation oncology, radiation protection, radiation emergency management, medical engineering, radiology technology, three-dimensional printing and virtual reality, change management in the health field, artificial intelligence and business intelligence, radiation therapy and radiomedical education.
Key discussions during the conference revolved around calls for establishing a unified cancer patient registry across Arab countries to facilitate data sharing, improve research quality, and streamline clinical trials. Panelists highlighted the potential of AI-powered tools to facilitate access to radiotherapy by increasing precision, reducing planning time, and addressing resource gaps in low- and middle-income countries. The event also unveiled advanced technologies, such as MRI-guided radiotherapy devices, which promise safer, more effective treatment options by providing real-time imaging and targeted radiation delivery.
Alfaisal University’s role in hosting and co-organizing the MESTRO conference for the 3rd consecutive year exemplifies our global outlook and dedication to advancing healthcare innovation and addressing critical challenges in oncology. The esteemed participation and contributions from experts worldwide reaffirm the university’s standing as a leading hub for academic and medical excellence.
