Ca-PRI 2025: A Global Gathering on Cancer Innovation, Inequality, and Interdisciplinary Care
Ca-PRI 2025
On 29–30 April 2025, more than 250 delegates from around the globe gathered at The Lowry in Salford, Manchester for the Cancer in Primary Care Research International (Ca-PRI) Conference 2025.
This sold-out event, organised in collaboration with the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC) and sponsored by Cancer Research UK, highlighted the pivotal role of primary care in cancer research and care delivery.
The Lowry and surrounding Salford Quays.
Prof. Richard Sullivan, King's College London, delivering a keynote speech.
Exploring Key Themes in Cancer Research
This year’s theme focused on three key areas: cancer innovation, inequalities, and interdisciplinary care.
We were proud to present a record-breaking 217 abstracts – the highest number of any previous Ca-PRI conference. Across two days, delegates explored new ways to detect cancer earlier, how technology – including artificial intelligence – is reshaping diagnostics, and what can be done to ensure everyone has access to high-quality cancer care, no matter where they live.
We were honoured to welcome keynote speakers Professor Mike Pignone from Duke University, who spoke about equity in lung cancer screening, and Professor Richard Sullivan from King’s College London, who offered global insights into the biggest challenges facing cancer care today.
It’s been a real privilege to bring Ca-PRI to Manchester this year. The energy, collaboration, and openness among delegates has been incredible. From cutting-edge research to powerful patient stories, this conference really highlighted the vital role primary care plays in improving cancer outcomes across the globe
Dr. Sam Merriel
GP and Lecturer at The University of Manchester and Chair of the Ca-PRI 2025 Organising Committee
Highlights from the Programme
From plenaries and breakout discussions, to thought-provoking poster sessions, Ca-PRI 2025 offered something for everyone. A few standout talks included:
- A Danish study on unplanned diagnostic journeys for multiple myeloma and lymphoma
- A UK study demonstrating blood test trends could support earlier cancer detection
- The ACES 65+ project from The University of Manchester, looking at urine HPV testing for cervical screening in older women
- A Swedish patient storytelling project exploring real-life cancer experiences in primary care
These sessions emphasised the importance of patient-centred approaches and the integration of innovative technologies in primary care settings
Attendees at a breakout session in the Compass Room at The Lowry.
Panelists during the final plenary session at The Lowry.
Manchester’s Legacy in Cancer Research
Manchester provided a powerful backdrop for this year’s conference. From pioneering radium treatments at The Christie Hospital, to the development of Tamoxifen, the city has a long-standing reputation for leadership in cancer research.
Today, the MCRC continues this legacy through collaborative efforts with The University of Manchester, Cancer Research UK, and The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. The Paterson Research Building, housing Europe’s largest concentration of cancer researchers, exemplifies Manchester’s commitment to advancing cancer care.
Manchester has always been a place where cancer research and care come together in bold, innovative ways. Hosting Ca-PRI 2025 here was a perfect fit – and a brilliant opportunity to showcase our commitment to tackling inequalities and accelerating early detection through world-class science and collaboration.
Professor Rob Bristow
Director of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre and CRUK Manchester Centre
The Ca-PRI bell which is passed on to each host institution.
A group photo of all Ca-PRI 2025 attendees.
Looking Ahead to Ca-PRI 2026
Building on the success of this year’s conference, the Ca-PRI network announced that the 2026 conference will be held in Utrecht, Netherlands. This upcoming event promises to further the mission of fostering international collaboration and advancing primary care research in oncology.
If you attended this year’s conference – or want to catch up on what you missed – you can still download the abstract booklet and programme from the Ca-PRI webpage:
We extend our gratitude to all attendees and speakers, as well as the conference organisers for making Ca-PRI 2025 a resounding success. Special thanks go to:
- Stephen Bradley
- Mercy Kibenda
- Reece Delaney
- Lorna McWilliams
- Helena O’Flynn
- Ozlem Eylem-van Bergeijk
- Nicola Cooper-Moss
- Glenys Somayajula
- Muzrif Mohamed Munas
We look forward to continuing these vital conversations in Utrecht next year!
