For our October 2026 Inspire2Live World Campus session, we welcomed Professor Alexander M.M. Eggermont, an internationally recognised expert in cancer research and treatment.

In his presentation, he explored one of the biggest shifts currently taking place in oncology: using immunotherapy before surgery to give the immune system the opportunity to fight cancer more effectively.

He explained how this approach, known as neoadjuvant immunotherapy, is changing the way several cancers are treated, particularly melanoma. Rather than removing tumours and affected lymph nodes first and giving immunotherapy afterwards, doctors can now stimulate the patient’s immune system before surgery. This allows the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells while the tumour and surrounding lymph nodes are still present.

Professor Eggermont shared compelling research showing how this approach can lead to better treatment responses, fewer relapses and, in many cases, less extensive surgery. He also discussed its growing potential in other cancer types, including certain skin, bladder, lung and rectal cancers.

His message was clear: the order in which we treat cancer can make a life changing difference. By working with the immune system at the right moment, we may be able to achieve better outcomes and give more patients the chance of a cure.

Watch the full session to hear Professor Eggermont explain the latest developments in neoadjuvant immunotherapy and how they could change the future of cancer treatment: