Currently Chair of the Scientific Committee of the European School of Oncology (ESO) and Scientific Director of the Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), Prof Cavalli’s research began in leukaemia, moved to breast cancer, and is currently malignant lymphoma.

He was instrumental in creating the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG).

Prof Cavalli is the founding editor of the Annals of Oncology, ESMO’s flagship scientific journal, established to keep medical oncologists at the cutting edge of new research developments; for over 12 years (1986-1998) Prof Cavalli was ESMO Secretary with a seat in the Executive Committee.

“ESMO has always meant a lot to me and it is a wonderful feeling to receive this recognition,” Prof Cavalli said.

From 2006 to 2008 he was President of the International Union Against Cancer (UICC). He was voted Switzerland’s “Person of the Year” in 2006 for his contribution to society – in particular his efforts on tackling cancer in developing regions. Prof Cavalli has authored or co-authored more than 550 scientific articles and five books including the "Textbook of Medical Oncology".

Josep Tabernero said: “On behalf of ESMO, I congratulate Prof Franco Cavalli as a much deserved recipient of this award. Prof Cavalli is a true gentleman and scholar, tirelessly working to advance cancer research and care for the benefit of cancer patients all over the world. Long before the term ‘oncopolicy’ started to gain momentum, he was already tackling key healthcare and policy issues to better raise awareness on and around cancer. He has also been instrumental in promoting the speciality of Medical Oncology at the European and International levels.”

For more information and an interview with Prof Cavalli

Source: ESMO