Prof. Iwona Lugowska Elected OECI President to Advance Cancer Care

Prof. Iwona Lugowska has become the President of Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI), which is a significant step for the Polish oncology sector and consolidates the country's position in the future development of cancer care throughout Europe. As a member of the Polish oncology community, she will occupy a unique leadership role in shaping strategic priorities in oncology treatment, research, innovation, accreditation and the establishment of multi-sectoral oncology networks.

The election is recognition of Prof. Iwona’s long experience and commitment in the field of oncology. She will lead initiatives as President of OECI that help to unite the top cancer centres in Europe, facilitate collaboration, knowledge sharing and ensure the adoption of best practices to enhance patient outcomes.

The President will have direct involvement in defining the strategic directions in European cooperation in oncology. The role involves a heavy burden of responsibility in contributing to the maintenance of high standards of cancer care, advancement of scientific research, innovation and improvement of accreditation systems for quality delivery of cancer care. It also offers a chance to strengthen collaborations between cancer institutes and health institutions to tackle one of the greatest health challenges of the world.

Key Highlights

• Polish oncology leader elected to head leading European organization.

• Appointment strengthens international cooperation in cancer treatment innovation.

• Focus on research, accreditation, networks, and patient-centered healthcare.

Prof. Iwona has been elected at a moment when healthcare systems are increasingly looking into collaboration between partners, innovation and providing high-quality cancer care services in Europe.

The OECI's role is pivotal in helping cancer centres through accreditation programmes, professional exchanges and programmes for the enhancement of cancer treatment and patient services standards. In her role, she will help lead the organization forward in some of these crucial areas.

Speaking about the nomination, Prof. Iwona emphasized the honor and the responsibility of being the leader of the organization. “Chairing the OECI is an honour, but also a commitment to further improve the cooperation between cancer centres in Europe and beyond and to find solutions that are really meaningful for patients and health care systems," she explained.

Her focus on collaboration and solutions that help patients and providers demonstrates a vision grounded in real solutions and practical approaches. OECI seeks to enhance the exchange of knowledge, boost research and development, and create greater access to new treatment options among cancer centers.

The appointment also reflects the increasingly broad international awareness of Poland's achievements in the field of oncology research and patient treatment. The presence of a Polish representative in OECI will increase opportunities for cross-border cooperation and promote wider involvement in European cross-border initiatives related to cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.

Medical professionals and healthcare leaders have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as an important step toward strengthening Europe’s collective efforts against cancer. The healthcare sector is constantly changing, so efficient leadership and international collaboration are must to deal with new challenges and enhance patient outcomes.

The appointment of Prof. Iwona Lugowska as President of OECI is a personal success and a very special occasion for the European oncology community. With her leadership, it is hoped that the organization will continue to foster innovation, expand collaborations and further the mission of providing excellence in cancer care across Europe and beyond.