As a representative of a patient organisation I found the 2011 European Multidisciplinary Cancer Congress in Stockholm to be a unique experience.  I was particularly impressed with the Court Room Trial Session as the format allowed the entire audience to interact with the speakers in a very informal way. Although the session seemed more akin to a play at the theatre, the message delivered by the high profile speakers, was both important and clear. The session was lively and impactful and, most importantly, clarified some issues of concern such as the patient/physician relationship.  This was definitely a novel experience for me and I would very much like to see this format repeated in future conferences.

I also found the Advocacy Session on Cancer at Any Age extremely valuable as the subject seems to preoccupy not only the European societies but also the European forums such as the EU and the WHO. The issue of the ageing population has a deep economical and political perspective in addition to a social and humanitarian dimension. 

Myeloma Euronet has a membership of people who are mainly over the age of 60, therefore I strongly believe that, due to its multilateral dimensions, the issue of ageing must be given the attention it deserves at the level of the European Union.  Effective mechanisms must be put in place to allow for programmes for the elderly. One way to ensure this happens is for the EU to collaborate with individual member states on   awareness campaigns.

It is highly commendable that the 2011 European Multidisciplinary Cancer Congress touched upon such a sensitive issue and hopefully this discussion will continue to be on the agenda at future meetings.

Viorica Cursaru, Myeloma Euronet Romania