Liverpool Hosts Record‑Breaking IAOO Congress to Advance Oral Cancer Research

Liverpool Hosts Record‑Breaking IAOO Congress to Advance Oral Cancer Research

(IN BRIEF) From 16–19 July, Liverpool hosted the IAOO’s 10th World Congress at ACC Liverpool, attracting over a thousand delegates from 55 countries. Organised by University of Liverpool experts and supported by Liverpool City Council, the congress focused on oral cancer—a disease with high incidence in the region. Highlights included 327 presentations, 41 symposia, and 435 abstracts covering prevention, treatment, and survivorship. Keynote speakers from the University of Liverpool showcased advances in immunotherapy and clinical practice, while sessions on pre‑cancer detection and post‑treatment care underscored the breadth of local expertise. The event also spotlighted the LDIR Wand, an infrared diagnostic device employing machine learning to improve tumour detection and patient outcomes. Liverpool’s commitment to tackling oral cancer continues through a new legacy project and ongoing research collaborations.

(PRESS RELEASE) LIVERPOOL, 31-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — This July, Liverpool played host to more than a thousand international experts at the 10th World Congress of the International Academy of Oral Oncology (IAOO), uniting leading voices in the fight against oral cancer. The event took place from 16–19 July at ACC Liverpool and was spearheaded by University of Liverpool researchers Professor Richard Shaw, Professor Andrew Schache, and their colleagues at the Liverpool Head & Neck Centre. Their efforts were bolstered by a broad coalition of sponsors, funders, and partners—most notably Liverpool City Council, which has pledged a lasting legacy project to combat oral cancer across the Liverpool City Region.

A Growing Health Challenge
Oral cancer, which affects the tissues of the mouth and throat as part of the broader group of head and neck cancers, continues to pose a significant public health concern. Liverpool unfortunately ranks among the UK’s areas with the highest incidence and mortality rates for this disease. Professor Matt Ashton, Liverpool’s Director of Public Health, noted that while local initiatives to reduce smoking and heavy drinking are making strides, the region has seen a rise in oral cancer diagnoses, mirroring national trends. He added that the IAOO congress has helped raise community awareness of available support services for quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol.

A Milestone Event
The IAOO is an international, multidisciplinary body committed to advancing research and patient care in oral and perioral cancers. Its biennial World Congress brings together head and neck surgeons, oncologists, dentists, allied health professionals, and scientists to share cutting‑edge findings. This year’s Liverpool edition drew delegates from 55 countries—the largest turnout in the academy’s history—and featured 327 presentations, 41 expert symposia, and discussions of 435 peer‑reviewed abstracts spanning prevention, treatment, and survivorship.

Liverpool Research in the Spotlight
Scientists from the University of Liverpool’s Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology were prominently featured. Professor Chris Butterworth, a leading maxillofacial surgeon, and Professor Christian Ottensmeier, known for his pioneering work in immunotherapy and personalised cancer treatments, delivered keynote talks on the university’s latest breakthroughs. Additionally, Dr Caroline McCarthy and Professor Jo Patterson led sessions on pre‑cancer detection and survivorship, highlighting the depth of expertise within the Liverpool Head & Neck Centre.

Congress co‑chair Professor Shaw reflected on the dual nature of the conference: an opportunity for international delegates to experience Liverpool’s vibrant cityscape, and a platform to exhibit the region’s innovative research and clinical approaches. He emphasised the devastating impact of oral cancer, which can be life‑threatening and profoundly affect functions such as eating and speaking.

Innovative Diagnostic Technology
Among the pioneering projects showcased was the Liverpool Diagnostic Infrared Wand (LDIR Wand), developed in collaboration between the Head and Neck Centre and University of Liverpool physicists. This new device leverages a patented machine‑learning algorithm to analyse infrared spectral images of tissue samples. Early tests have demonstrated its potential to revolutionise oral cancer diagnosis, treatment planning, and prognostic accuracy.

Media Contacts:

Joanne Carr
Deputy Director of Communications and Public Affairs
T: +44 (0)7825 434900
E: jocarr@liverpool.ac.uk

Sarah Stamper
Media Relations Manager – Science and Engineering
T: +44 (0)7970 247396
E: sarah.stamper@liverpool.ac.uk

Jennifer Morgan
Media Relations Manager – Health and Life Sciences
T: +44 (0)7775 547589
E: J.L.Morgan@liverpool.ac.uk

Alison Cornmell
Media Relations Manager – Health and Life Sciences
T: +44 (0) 7771 700680
E: Alison.Cornmell@liverpool.ac.uk

SOURCE: University of Liverpool