Introduction: Gastric cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Although a gradual decline in incidence has been observed in some nations due to improved sanitation, better control of Helicobacter pylori infection, and dietary changes, mortality rates remain high. This is primarily due to late-stage diagnosis and the limited effectiveness of conventional treatments such as surgery alone or empirical chemotherapy. In this context, new, more precise, and personalized therapeutic strategies are being investigated to enhance disease control and patient survival. Objective: To conduct a systematic review of recent advances in gastric cancer treatment, focusing on targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Methodology: A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for publications from January 2019 to January 2024. MeSH descriptors and specific keywords were combined using Boolean operators. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses on targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or combined strategies in adults with advanced gastric adenocarcinoma. Preclinical studies, case reports, and articles not in English or Portuguese were excluded. The selection process involved three stages: title screening, abstract review, and full-text analysis. Data extracted included study design, interventions, biomarkers, outcomes (overall survival and progression-free survival), and adverse events. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and AMSTAR-2, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Results: A total of 36 studies met the inclusion criteria. Significant advancements were noted in immunotherapy, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, which demonstrated efficacy in patients with high PD-L1 expression (Combined Positive Score >= 5) and tumors exhibiting microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), leading to improved overall survival (average hazard ratio: 0.74) and increased objective response rates. Concurrently, targeted therapies continue to be effective, especially in patients with HER2 overexpression treated with trastuzumab. Ramucirumab, a VEGFR-2 inhibitor, showed efficacy both as monotherapy and in combination with paclitaxel in second-line settings, improving progression-free survival (median: 4.4 months vs. 2.9 months in the control arm). Additionally, combining immunotherapy with traditional chemotherapy has shown promise, suggesting a synergistic potential between these approaches. Conclusion: Findings from this review highlight a paradigm shift in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer, with the progressive incorporation of personalized therapies based on molecular biomarkers. Careful patient selection based on characteristics such as HER2 and PD-L1 expression, as well as MSI-H status, is crucial to maximize the clinical benefits of these emerging therapies. However, despite encouraging results, further long-term studies with robust methodologies are necessary to validate and consolidate these strategies in clinical oncology practice.
It is with great enthusiasm that we present the Annals of the Oncology International Symposium 2025, an event that continues to solidify its significance in the oncology landscape of northern Brazil. Held in Belém, Pará, Oncology 2025 centered around the theme "The cancer control challenge: better knowing it to best facing it," dedicating itself to exploring the latest frontiers in cancer treatment and prevention.
This year, the symposium provided a deep dive into the essential role of knowledge in the fight against cancer, presenting new perspectives and scientific advancements across various areas of oncology. Renowned global experts gathered to share their most recent research and innovative approaches, offering participants a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and patients worldwide.
Presentations and discussions during the event focused on critical topics such as the use of new technologies, advancements in personalized therapies, and more effective prevention strategies. Additionally, particular attention was given to the unique challenges faced by the Amazon region, with efforts aimed at developing region-specific solutions to meet local needs.
Beyond being a high-caliber academic event, Oncology 2025 stood out as a moment for integration and professional networking, with the warm hospitality of the city of Belém offering participants a unique experience. This event became a platform for exchanging ideas, where science, culture, and humanity came together in pursuit of a common goal: to improve cancer control both in Brazil and globally.
This collection of abstracts and articles presented during the event reflects the ongoing dedication to research and the development of innovative solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in the fight against cancer.
General Submission Guidelines:
The presenting author, who does not have to be the first author, must be registered for Oncology 2025.
Each abstract may have up to 10 authors, including the main author and co-authors.
Only original, unpublished work will be accepted.
Submissions must be related to oncology. However, project descriptions, work proposals, experience reports, and literature reviews will not be considered.
Clinical case reports are allowed, provided the abstract addresses scientific questions, details clinical observations, and includes primary scientific data.
The abstract must be written in English, but presentations may be given in Portuguese.
Abstracts must be between 300 and 500 words.
Comissão Organizadora
Comissão Científica
See Annals of Oncology 2023 at:
https://www.even3.com.br/anais/oncology-2023-international-symposium/
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