For the 35th anniversary of Annals of Oncology, Prof. Thomas Powles, Editor-in-Chief since 2024, reflects on the journal's key contributions to oncology.
He discusses its role in advancing clinical trials, precision oncology, and new technologies, while also looking ahead to the future of cancer research and the journal’s evolving role in the field.
What do you see as the journal’s most significant contributions to the field in recent years?
In recent years, Annals of Oncology has made several notable contributions to the field of oncology. One of its key strengths has been its ability to showcase some of the most promising phase 2 clinical trials, which have provided valuable insights into emerging cancer treatments. Additionally, the journal has played a pivotal role in highlighting cutting-edge cancer biomarker data, which are essential in guiding personalised medicine approaches. Another significant contribution has been its support in disseminating ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines, prepared and reviewed by leading experts and based on the findings of evidence-based medicine, thus a daily practice tool to provide recommendations to ensure patients receive the best care.
How would Annals of Oncology incorporate new trends in oncology, such as precision oncology or others?
Annals of Oncology is at the forefront of incorporating new trends in oncology, and precision oncology is a prime example of this. The journal is well-positioned to lead in this area due to its rapid turnaround time and efficient editorial process, which allows for the swift publication of new research. This is particularly valuable for authors, especially when their work can have an immediate impact on patient care and treatment protocols. We also place strong emphasis on high-quality randomised trials, including negative ones, as these contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of treatment efficacy.
What strategies do you have in mind to address the evolving needs of the oncology community?
To address the ever-changing needs of the oncology community, we have adopted several forward-thinking strategies. One such approach is our active engagement on social media, where we have amassed a substantial following, particularly on X (former Twitter), with over 45,000 followers. This platform allows us to quickly share important updates, new research and editorial content with a broad and diverse audience. We’ve also expanded our reach through podcasts, which provide a more accessible format for discussing critical oncology topics and keeping the community informed. Most recently, we launched Annals10, a series that highlights key takeaways from major oncology meetings, helping professionals stay up to date with the latest advancements. Embracing artificial intelligence is another key focus, as it has the potential to improve early cancer detection and help address delays in diagnosis across Europe, further enhancing clinical outcomes.
What exciting research areas do you anticipate emerging in oncology, and how will Annals of Oncology feature them?
Several exciting research areas are emerging in oncology, and Annals of Oncology is well-positioned to feature these developments prominently. One area to watch is the advancement of cellular therapies, which has shown significant promise in treating certain types of cancer. Additionally, the rise of antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) is another innovative approach gaining traction, offering new avenues for targeted cancer therapy. These areas are being actively monitored by the journal, and we are committed to publishing high-quality research that explores their clinical potential.
ESMO publishes several prominent journals, including ESMO Open, Immuno-Oncology and Technology (IOTECH), ESMO Gastrointestinal Oncology, ESMO Real World Data and Digital Oncology and ESMO Rare Cancers. How do you see Annals of Oncology working in synergy with these journals to collectively advance oncology research and clinical practice?
All the ESMO journals work in close synergy to collectively advance oncology research and clinical practice, and Annals of Oncology plays a central role in this collaboration. Each journal within the ESMO portfolio has its own specific focus, catering to different aspects of oncology research, from immuno-oncology to real-world data. By working together efficiently, we ensure that the needs of most authors are met, no matter the niche of their research. For example, when a submission might be better suited to a different journal within the ESMO portfolio, we facilitate smooth transitions to ensure the author’s work is placed in the most appropriate publication. Not only does this collaborative approach improve the author experience, it also helps to ensure that cutting-edge research is disseminated to the right audience, thereby maximising its impact on clinical practice.