On May 14–15, 2025, the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) hosted the inaugural NKI Early Cancer Detection Conference in Amsterdam. This conference gathered world-class speakers and participants from a wide range of disciplines, including researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals, all united by a common goal: advancing the science and implementation of early cancer detection.
The conference created a dynamic space for dialogue, networking, and collaboration among both local and international attendees. It highlighted the growing recognition that early diagnosis is essential to improve patient outcomes.
A dynamic, multidisciplinary agenda
The conference featured a dynamic and multidisciplinary agenda, highlighting cutting-edge developments in cancer screening strategies, biomarkers, risk stratification, artificial intelligence in early cancer diagnosis, innovations in diagnostic technologies, and emerging directions in early detection, prevention, and clinical implementation.
Attendees engaged in a variety of formats, including keynote lectures, lightning talks, and poster presentations. These sessions facilitated in-depth discussions on the scientific and systemic advancements to enhance early diagnosis and improve patient outcomes.
Beyond the formal program, the conference emphasized collaboration, offering ample networking opportunities for attendees to connect across disciplines. This created a unique environment for sharing ideas, forging partnerships, and laying the groundwork for future initiatives.
Advancing Early Detection: Marjanka Schmidt and Cancer Core Europe
Two key driving forces behind the conference were Marjanka Schmidt, leader of the Early Detection Program at the Netherlands Cancer Institute and co-leader of the Early Detection and Prevention pillar of Cancer Core Europe (CCE), and Lisanne Verhoef, Project Manager for Early Detection at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) and coordinator of the CCE Early Detection and Prevention pillar.
“Our goal is to accelerate progress in early cancer detection by bringing together science, technology, and implementation research, while building an informed and connected community that drives innovation and ensures earlier diagnosis reaches patients faster,” said Schmidt.
Her leadership reflects the strategic importance that both NKI and CCE assign to early detection—not only as a scientific frontier, but as a critical step toward transforming cancer care across Europe.
Marjanka and Lisanne co-organized the event with colleagues Doreth Bhairosing and Theo Ruers of the Netherlands Cancer Institute’s Center of Early Diagnostics, creating a platform that bridges discovery and clinical application.
Early Detection at NKI: A Strategic Priority
In 2022, the NKI established its Center for Early Diagnostics, a multidisciplinary hub dedicated to enable rapid and accurate diagnosis using cutting-edge technologies. The center brings together clinical and research experts to explore cancer risk factors and improve methods for early prediction and detection.
As part of the institute’s broader research strategy, Early Detection has emerged as a central theme. Guided by the bold mission of “early detection as a cure for every cancer,” the NKI is actively working to shift the cancer care paradigm—focusing not only on treatment, but also on identifying cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.
