DESCRIPTION:

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancers, beginning with the epidemiological background and highlighting the significant improvements in survival outcomes for affected patients. We will then evaluate ongoing efforts in treatment deintensification, with a particular focus on response-adaptive approaches that aim to balance cure rates with long-term quality of life. In addition, the discussion will extend to patients’ perspectives on research-only biopsies in lung cancer, underscoring both the ethical and practical considerations that inform trial design. The talk will conclude with a forward-looking view on integrating patient voices into future clinical research and shaping strategies for precision oncology.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Discuss the epidemiological background and improved survival outcomes in patients with HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancers
• Evaluate explored deintensification strategies, including response adaptive approaches to managing HPV positive oropharyngeal cancers
• Highlight patients’ perspectives and future directions on research-only biopsies in lung cancer