As attendees descend on the 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC), which begins today, Saturday, September 6, at the Fira de Barcelona Convention Center Gran Via, IASLC CEO Karen Kelly, MD, shares her take on programming highlights and tips for making the most of your time in Barcelona.
Dr. Kelly, an internationally recognized lung cancer expert and IASLC CEO, shares her take with ILCN below.
ILCN: What sessions or themes are you most looking forward to at WCLC 2025, and why?
Dr. Kelly: I’m especially excited about the two presidential symposia. They’re always a highlight for me because they showcase the incredible work of our global members and the multidisciplinary spirit that makes the IASLC unique. It’s a true reflection of who we are, the breadth of progress happening in our field, and the impact we’re making in the lives of our patients and the public.
In addition to the presidential symposiums, I’m eager to see how several new initiatives will be spotlighted through special sessions on the program. One that stands out is the Announcing the IASLC Lancet Commission on Lung Cancer: A Transformative Global Approach session on Sunday. This interactive panel will highlight the Lancet Commission’s proven influence and its bold vision for the future of lung cancer care.
I also look forward to Monday’s WHO Integrated Lung Health Resolution: What It Is and Why It Matters to the Lung Cancer Community. This session will clarify the resolution’s purpose and the next steps to strengthen lung health worldwide.
Both sessions reflect the kind of global partnership and forward-thinking science that lie at the heart of IASLC’s mission.
ILCN: How do you feel the World Conference has evolved throughout the yearsregarding its global impact and scientific direction?
Dr. Kelly: The WCLC must evolve as the science evolves to ensure we are providing our members and attendees with the latest, most relevant information to assist their patients and inform future scientific discoveries that can help us achieve our vision of conquering thoracic malignancies.
The pace of progress has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve worked hard to create an environment where researchers and members can connect in meaningful ways. It’s not just about sharing data; it’s about building collaborations that push the field forward.
The energy across every discipline is truly inspiring. When you bring these perspectives together, you create a groundswell of excitement—for the science, for stakeholders, and, most importantly, for patients.
Ultimately, it’s about improving the lives of those living with thoracic malignancies and preventing others from facing this disease.
ILCN: What advice would you give to attendees to make the most out of the 2025 WCLC?
Dr. Kelly: Take it all in. Enjoy every moment, and don’t leave without making a new connection. Ask questions, introduce yourself, and let our team help you meet the right people.
The science is incredible, but it’s the relationships you build here that will stay with you long after WCLC.
ILCN: Is there anything else you’d like to share or highlight about WCLC 2025?
Dr. Kelly: There are so many highlights from this past year! We’ve been very intentional about increasing value for our members.
I’m incredibly proud of the major accomplishments we’ve achieved together. Each one represents our commitment to advancing science, building connections, and supporting our thoracic community around the globe. I also look forward to sharing all that great work at the Opening Plenary on Saturday evening.
Key Sessions for the Global Lung Cancer Community
Don’t miss these two #WCLC25 sessions organized in part by IASLC CEO Karen. Kelly, MD. These sessions shine a spotlight on global collaboration and bold resolutions with the potential to shape the future of lung cancer care.
Announcing the IASLC-Lancet Commission on Lung Cancer: A Transformative Global Approach
10:45 AM CEST, Sunday, September 7, Room 10
The WHO Integrated Lung Health Resolution: What it is and Why it Matters to the Lung Cancer Community
10:45 AM CEST, Monday, September 8, Room 10
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