It is with deep sadness that ESMO has learnt of the sudden death of Professor José Baselga, renowned for his outstanding contributions in advancing cancer science, treatment and care for countless patients across the globe, leaving an enduring legacy for years to come.
As past President of ESMO, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), Barcelona VHIO’s International Scientific Committee and the FERO Foundation, and Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and Harvard Medical School, José Baselga shared his contagious determination to advance cancer science and improve patient care to the oncology community and future generations.
Professor Jose Baselga was instrumental in triggering the focused developments that have made ESMO the society it is today: facilitating contact and collaboration between members from all over the world, making education the hard core of the Society’s activities, expanding the research fellowship programme are just a few but fundamental contributions under his guidance that have strengthened the global oncology community.
“Undoubtedly a giant of oncology, one of the most innovative scientists, an amazing mentor for so many cancer professionals,” said ESMO President Solange Peters. “He gave a lot to cancer research, cancer professionals and cancer patients: now we all must continue his legacy.”
Our thoughts are with his family and the vast number of oncologists that he has worked with and mentored.