European discussions on risk-based screening

Two surgical oncologists from the IMSP Institutul Oncologic, Republic of Moldova—Buruiană Gheorghe (Surgical Oncologist, Thoracoabdominal Unit) and Cernat Mircea (Surgical Oncologist, Gastroenterology Unit)-participated in the EUCanScreen Conference on Personalised Cancer Screening, an expert meeting bringing together leading specialists from across Europe.

The conference provided Moldova with valuable insights into how personalised, risk-based screening models can be adapted to national healthcare systems. Our representatives gained:
• Understanding of risk-stratified screening pathways for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate, and gastric cancers—knowledge that can support structured, evidence-based planning in Moldova.
• Examples of successful European implementation, such as the MyPeBS breast cancer trial and RISCC cervical screening model, offering practical lessons for improving screening quality and resource allocation.
• Exposure to innovative tools including polygenic risk scores, AI-supported triage, and multicancer early detection tests, which highlight future directions for early diagnosis in Moldova.
• Guidance on communication strategies, ensuring that personalised screening can be introduced transparently and ethically, with citizen engagement at its core.
These learnings contribute directly to Moldova’s long-term objective of enhancing early cancer detection and reducing the national burden of disease.

The participation of Dr. Buruiană and Dr. Cernat provided valuable exposure to emerging scientific evidence and international best practices. Their involvement supports the development of modern, risk-based approaches within Moldova’s oncology services and strengthens the national capacity to improve early detection.

Engagement in this EU-level event reinforces Moldova’s collaboration with European screening experts. The insights gained will contribute to strategic discussions on adapting personalised screening models to the Moldovan context.