"Nowadays, clinical achievements are basically propelled by translational research and therefore this award is a recognition of a multidisciplinary effort," Prof Rosell said. "It is a great honor for me to receive this award, but more importantly, I believe that the award is a recognition of the collective group of clinical and laboratory investigators, as well as statisticians and other key persons involved."

The ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011 goes to Prof Hans J-rg Senn of the Tumor and Breast Centre ZeTuP, in St Gallen, Switzerland.

"Prof Senn is being recognized for his work in organizing educational activities, which set the standards of care in breast cancer, mainly in relation to adjuvant treatment, as well as bringing prevention strategies to Medical Oncologists in Europe," said Prof Franco Cavalli, Chair of the ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award Committee. "His outstanding efforts through the organization of Consensus Conferences among breast cancer experts focused attention on addressing subtle questions in the adjuvant treatment of breast cancer, which presented a dilemma for practicing physicians."

The ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award is bestowed on international research teams or individuals with demonstrated commitment to cancer research treatment. Through his work in leading an annual conference in St. Gallen, Prof Senn has taken an important lead in the optimization of treatment for early breast cancer. "He has contributed enormously to the development of the treatment of early breast cancer. The consensus statements generated at the St Gallen events are very important standards in clinical practice worldwide," said Prof Cavalli.

Source: European Society for Medical Oncology