16th International Gastrointestinal Cancers Conference (IGICC 2026): Invitation, General Information and Conference Program
Invitation to 16th IGICC 2026 in Istanbul
Dear Colleagues,
On behalf of the Organizing Committee, I am pleased to invite you to the 16th IGICC 2026, to be held between December 17-20, 2026. The meeting will be held in a hybrid format, with online sessions and in-person sessions at The Marmara Taksim Hotel in İstanbul, Türkiye. However, in person sessions can be viewed live online if registered to the conference. You can get detailed information at the conference website;
www.igicc.org
Building on the experience gained through the previous fifteen meetings, IGICC 2026 will once again provide a great forum for education, scientific exchange, and discussion of current developments in gastrointestinal cancer management. The hybrid format will make the scientific content accessible to a wider international audience while preserving the direct interaction and multidisciplinary exchange offered by an in-person meeting.
The scientific program covers the main areas of gastrointestinal oncology, including gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, and pancreatic cancers; neuroendocrine tumors (NETs); gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs); gastrointestinal lymphomas; and supportive/palliative care. The program has been developed for medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, gastroenterologists, nuclear medicine specialists, and other professionals involved in the care of patients with gastrointestinal cancers.
The program will include keynote lectures, educational sessions, multidisciplinary tumor board discussions, case-based presentations, and oral and poster presentations. Both online and in-person participants will be able to follow current scientific discussions, exchange experience with colleagues, and develop new professional and research connections.
We cordially invite you to join us by attending the conference either online or in person and to contribute to the scientific program by submitting your scientific work for consideration as an oral or poster presentation.
We are looking forward to welcoming you to IGICC 2026 in December 17-20 in Istanbul, where continents meet.
Sincerely,
Prof. MD. Şuayib Yalçın Chair, IGICC 2026 Hacettepe University Cancer Institute Ankara, Türkiye
16th IGICC 2026:
Introduction and Historical Background
Since its first meeting in 2011, the IGICC has grown into an established annual meeting for professionals working in gastrointestinal oncology. Over sixteen years, it has developed from a regional initiative into an international conference, bringing together thousands of participants from more than 50 countries across six continents. Throughout this period, IGICC has focused on sharing most current research and information, discussing its application in clinical practice, and supporting international collaboration.
Legacy of Previous Conferences
IGICC’s development is reflected not only in increasing attendance but also in the way discussions held at the meeting have contributed to clinical practice and research priorities. Previous conferences have also supported consensus-building, encouraged international research partnerships, and provided a platform for the discussion of new treatment approaches.
IGICC 2011-2015: Foundational Years
The first meetings established IGICC as a multidisciplinary forum in gastrointestinal oncology. During this period, specialists from different fields came together to discuss clinical practice and emerging evidence. The multidisciplinary model-bringing together medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care-became a defining feature of the conference from the outset.
IGICC 2016-2020: The Era of Precision Oncology
As molecular diagnostics and genomic profiling became more widely available, the program increasingly addressed how molecular findings could be incorporated into clinical decision-making. Targeted therapies for specific molecular subtypes and the clinical relevance of emerging biomarkers became important areas of discussion.
IGICC 2021-2025: Immunotherapy and Personalized Care
The most recent meetings reflected the growing role of immunotherapy in gastrointestinal oncology. IGICC 2021 included presentations on checkpoint inhibitor combinations in advanced gastric cancer, while IGICC 2023 addressed neoadjuvant immunotherapy in colorectal cancer. During the same period, the program gave greater attention to patient-centered care, including palliative medicine, nutritional support, and psycho-oncology. The value of IGICC extends beyond the meeting itself. In the post-conference survey conducted after IGICC 2024, 87% of respondents reported that they had introduced new clinical strategies based on conference presentations. In addition, 64% stated that they had started new research collaborations with colleagues they met at the conference, and 92% rated the multidisciplinary case discussions as “highly valuable” or “essential”.
Current Landscape of Gastrointestinal Cancers
Gastrointestinal cancers remain a major cause of illness and death worldwide. According to the Global Cancer Observatory, they account for approximately one in four cancer cases and one in three cancer-related deaths globally. These figures underline the continuing need to share evidence, strengthen international collaboration, and improve the transfer of current knowledge into daily practice. These priorities remain central to IGICC 2026.
Conference Objectives
IGICC 2026 aims to:
• Present clinically relevant updates across gastrointestinal oncology;
• Support multidisciplinary discussion of complex and controversial cases;
• Encourage the exchange of experience between national and international participants;
• Provide a platform for oral and poster presentations; and
• Strengthen future clinical and research collaborations.
IGICC 2026 at a Glance
December 17-20, 2026 | Hybrid format | Online and in-person sessions | The Marmara Taksim Hotel, Istanbul | Four-day multidisciplinary scientific program | Oral and poster presentations
IGICC 2026 Conference Program Overview
IGICC 2026 will offer a four-day scientific program combining online and in-person sessions. This format is intended to provide flexibility for participants while maintaining direct scientific discussion and interaction.
Conference Format and Participation Options
Virtual sessions (online): Thursday, December 17, 2026, 08:00-17:55 (GMT+3) participants can attend educational sessions remotely, ensuring global accessibility.
On-site Sessions (In-person): Thursday-Sunday, December 17-20, 2026, at The Marmara Taksim Hotel, İstanbul In-person participants benefit from direct interaction with faculty, networking opportunities, and multidisciplinary case discussions. But the sessions can be followed live online if registered, and later can be viewed at IGICC.TV at the conference website IGICC.org.
Detailed Program Schedule
Thursday, December 17, 2026-VIRTUAL SESSIONS (Online)
08:00-11:15: Update on Immunotherapy as a Standard of Care for Gastrointestinal Cancers
This three-part session reviews the transformative role of immunotherapy across the gastrointestinal cancer spectrum:
Part I (08:00-09:15): Foundational principles of immunotherapy in GI oncology, including basics and rationale for immune-oncology treatment, the impact of glucocorticoid use on immunotherapy efficacy, and management strategies for immune-related adverse events.
Part II (09:15-10:25): Disease-specific immunotherapy applications including esophageal cancer, gastroesophageal and gastric adenocarcinoma, hepatocellular cancer, and biliary tract cancers.
Part III (10:25-11:20): Additional GI malignancies including pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and anal cancer, with comprehensive discussion of immunotherapy sequencing and combination strategies.
11:20-12:15: Anti-VEGF and Anti-EGFR Therapies for Metastatic Colon Cancers: Basic Principles
This session explores the fundamental mechanisms and clinical applications of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in metastatic colorectal cancer management, including patient selection criteria and combination strategies.
12:15-13:00: Antibody-drug Conjugates and CAR-T Cell Treatment in GI Oncology: Where Do We Stand
Emerging therapeutic modalities including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies are discussed, with emphasis on current clinical evidence and future directions in gastrointestinal oncology.
13:00-16:15: Update on the Supportive and Palliative Care in GI Cancer Patients (Parts I & II)
This extended session addresses the critical supportive care needs of GI cancer patients:
Part I: Management of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia, chemotherapy-induced nausea and emesis (CINV), and survivorship issues including functional recovery, fertility, and sexual health.
Part II: Management of adverse events related to emerging targeted therapies (Claudin 18.2, ADCs, HER2, FGFR inhibitors), cancer pain management, vaccination strategies, micronutrient deficiencies (magnesium), cancer-associated fatigue and anemia, bone health in GI cancer patients, frailty assessment in older patients, and integrative oncology approaches.
16:15-16:55: Common Clinical Challenges in Daily GI Oncology Practice
Practical clinical scenarios including polypharmacy management, anticoagulation strategies, and optimal timing of surgery after neoadjuvant therapy.
16:55-17:55: Rare Tumors
Discussion of uncommon gastrointestinal malignancies including small bowel adenocarcinoma, appendiceal neoplasms and pseudomyxoma peritonei, hemangioendothelioma, and pancreatic pseudopapillary tumors.
Thursday, December 17, 2026 - ON-SITE SESSIONS (In-person)
13:00-13:45: Management of Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (GEP-NETs)
This session covers WHO classification updates, modern imaging and theranostic approaches, the evolving role of surgery, and treatment sequencing in advanced GEP-NETs with emphasis on precision oncology and molecular profiling (NETest).
13:00-13:45: Artificial Intelligence in GI Oncology
Parallel session exploring AI applications in medical imaging, digital pathology, clinical decision support systems, and their integration into gastrointestinal cancer management.
13:45-14:35: Peritoneal Surface Malignancies in GI Cancers
Organized in collaboration with the Turkish Peritoneal Surface Oncology Society (PYOD), this session addresses the biology of peritoneal metastases, patient selection for cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC), integration of systemic therapy with regional treatments, and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) techniques.
13:45-14:50: Rare Tumors (On-site)
Discussion of desmoid tumors, adrenocortical carcinoma, fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.
16:05-16:30: Coffee Break and Networking
16:30-16:45: Anal Cancers: Comprehensive Approach
HPV vaccination strategies, screening and early detection methods, neoadjuvant treatment approaches, and first and second-line systemic therapy for anal cancers.
17:00-18:10: Current Concepts in GIST Management
Precision pathology and molecular classification, the evolving role of surgery (neoadjuvant therapy, organ preservation, metastasectomy), adjuvant therapy patient selection, and treatment sequencing in advanced GIST based on molecular alterations.
Friday, December 18, 2026 - ON-SITE SESSIONS
08:00-09:00: Current Management of Esophageal Cancer
Coverage of localized esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, perioperative treatment of esophageal adenocarcinoma (chemotherapy vs. chemoradiotherapy vs. immunotherapy), advanced disease management in the immunotherapy era, and oligometastatic disease treatment strategies.
09:00-10:00: Advances in the Treatment of Gastroesophageal and Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Clinical characteristics of molecular subtypes (HER2, CLDN18.2, FGFR2b, MSI, PD-L1, EBV, emerging biomarkers), optimization of perioperative treatment, and first-line treatment selection for advanced disease in the precision oncology era.
10:00-10:40: Keynote Lecture: Standard and Emerging Systemic Treatment Options for Advanced GEJ and Gastric Adenocarcinoma
10:30-11:00: Industrial Symposium
11:00-11:20: Coffee Break and Networking
11:20-12:50: Early Detection, Screening and Surveillance in GI Cancers
Risk-adapted screening strategies, blood-based screening and emerging molecular technologies, upper GI cancer screening standards, colorectal cancer screening integration, and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for minimal residual disease detection and surveillance.
Moderated Session (75 minutes): Discussion of gastroesophageal junction cancer management including epidemiology and diagnosis, multidisciplinary neoadjuvant care (FLOT, CROSS protocols), surgical strategy based on Siewert classification, lymphadenectomy controversies, minimally invasive and robotic techniques, and complication management with adjuvant therapy.
12:50-13:30: Lunch
13:30-14:00: Keynote Lecture: The New Era of RAS-Targeted Therapy
Review of RAS-targeted therapy evolution including spesific KRAS G12C, KRAS G12D/G12V, pan-RAS inhibitors, RAS(ON) inhibitors, resistance mechanisms, and future directions.
14:30-15:00: Industrial Symposium
15:00-16:15: Current Management of Pancreatic Cancer
Precision oncology in pancreatic cancer with biomarker-guided treatment, perioperative strategies for resectable and borderline resectable disease, evolving role of radiotherapy, and advanced pancreatic cancer management.
16:15-16:35: Coffee Break and Networking
16:35-17:35: Tissue-agnostic Pathways as Therapeutic Targets in GI Cancers
DNA damage response and repair (DDR) alterations including HRD and PARP inhibitors, gene fusion-driven cancers (RET, NTRK, NRG1/2, ALK, ROS1), and hypermutated tumors with emerging molecular targets.
16:35-17:35: Nutrition, Exercise & Cancer Cachexia Masterclass
Cancer cachexia recognition and assessment, nutrition and exercise oncology from prehabilitation to survivorship, multimodal management strategies, and case-based practical management.
17:35-18:20: Optimizing Preventive Care in GI Tumors
DPYD testing strategies, hepatitis prophylaxis, and prophylactic antibiotic use in GI cancer patients receiving systemic treatment.
Friday, December 18, 2026 - Parallel Session
11:30-13:00: Psycho-oncology & Palliative Care Integration
Early integration of palliative care in GI cancers, management of anxiety and depression, communication of difficult news, caregiver burden assessment, and supportive care strategies.
14:50-16:25: Therapeutic Role of Interventional Radiology in GI Cancers
Organized by the Turkish Interventional Oncology Society, this session covers ablative techniques (RFA, MWA, cryoablation), transarterial techniques (TACE, TARE, HAIC), portal vein embolization, interventional radiology in pain management, and vertebroplasty.
Saturday, December 19, 2026 - ON-SITE SESSIONS
08:00-09:25: Current Management of Localized Colon Cancer
Endoscopic management of early colorectal cancer, neoadjuvant treatment strategies for MSS vs. MSI-H disease, personalized adjuvant therapy, ctDNA-guided treatment, and lifestyle and metabolic interventions for recurrence prevention.
09:25-10:30: Precision Systemic Treatment for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer - Part I
Biomarker-driven first-line treatment selection, KRAS targeting in mCRC, BRAF V600E-mutant mCRC management, HER2-positive mCRC treatment, and treatment intensification strategies.
10:40-12:10: Precision Systemic Treatment for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer - Part II
Treatment sequencing and integration of local therapies, maintenance therapy optimization, second-line biomarker-guided approaches, later-line treatment strategies, oligometastatic disease management, radiotherapy and ablative therapy integration, and liver-directed therapies (TARE, HAIC).
12:10-13:15: Special Populations and Emerging Challenges in Colorectal Cancer
Early-onset colorectal cancer epidemiology and biology, treatment optimization in older adults, hereditary colorectal cancer and germline testing, gender differences in colorectal cancer, and colorectal cancer epidemiology and screening needs in Türkiye.
13:30-14:15: Lunch
14:15-14:55: Liver Transplantation in Colorectal Liver Metastases
Evidence from SECA and TRANSMET trials, patient selection criteria, multidisciplinary decision-making, and future perspectives.
14:55-15:55: Industrial Symposia
15:55-16:20: Coffee Break and Networking
16:20-17:35: Current Management of Localized Rectal Cancer
Total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT) strategies, TNT optimization (induction vs. consolidation chemotherapy), neoadjuvant immunotherapy for dMMR/MSI-H disease, organ preservation approaches (watch-and-wait, local excision), and personalized treatment selection.
17:35-18:20: Keynote Lecture: Building Regional Oncology Networks in Central & Eastern Europe
Regional collaboration, clinical trial access, and ambassadorship in advancing gastrointestinal oncology.
Sunday, December 20, 2026 - ON-SITE SESSIONS
08:00-09:15: Prevention, Early Detection and Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Part I)
Prevention strategies (viral hepatitis, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease), risk stratification and surveillance protocols, imaging diagnosis (LI-RADS, MRI), HCC pathology and biomarkers, and staging systems (BCLC, TNM, Child-Pugh, ALBI).
09:15-11:00: Treatment and Multidisciplinary Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (Part II)
Hepatic resection techniques, liver transplantation indications, intermediate-stage HCC management, TACE and radioembolization (Y-90) strategies, radiation therapy approaches (SBRT, external beam radiotherapy), first-line therapy selection, and treatment after progression.
11:00-13:00: Current Multidisciplinary Management of Biliary Tract Cancers
Precision pathology in biliary cancers, surgical management of intrahepatic, perihilar, and distal cholangiocarcinoma, targeted therapies for FGFR2 fusions and IDH1 mutations, and systemic treatment strategies.
Target Audience and Participant Profile
The IGICC 2026 program is intended for professionals from the following specialties:
Registration, Accommodation, and Logistical Information
Registration Options and Fees
IGICC 2026 offers separate registration options for online and in-person participation. A 20% VAT will be added to all registration fees.
Note: No cancellations of conference registrations will be accepted after August 7, 2026. However, participant name substitutions will be permitted upon written notification.
Accommodation Information
Accommodation for in-person participants is available at The Marmara Taksim Hotel. The rates below are for a three-night package, with check-in on December 17 and check-out on December 20, on a bed-and-breakfast basis. A 10% VAT will be added to the accommodation fees.
Transfer Services and Banking Information
Transfer Services: Round-trip group shuttle transfer between İstanbul Airport and the hotel is available at 200 EURO per person. Transfers will be organized for participants who have previously submitted their flight details to UNICON MICE.
Payment Information: Registration and accommodation requests become valid only after submitting your request to [email protected], receiving budget approval, and sending the bank receipt evidencing payment to UNICON MICE. Payments should be made to the following VAKIFBANK accounts:
HESAP ADI: Unicon Mice Kongre Turizm Organizasyon Hiz.Tic.Ltd.Şti.
BANKA ADI: GARANTİ BANKASI
BANKA SWİFT KODU: TGBATRISXXX
ŞUBE ADI: ULUS ŞUBE - 395
TL IBAN: TR38 0006 2000 3950 0006 2947 20
EURO IBAN: TR03 0006 2000 3950 0009 0565 52
USD IBAN: TR14 0006 2000 3950 0009 0551 90
Conclusion
The 16th International Gastrointestinal Cancers Conference will provide an opportunity to review current developments across the rapidly changing field of gastrointestinal oncology. Through four days of online and in-person sessions, the meeting will combine scientific updates, practical discussion, and multidisciplinary exchange for professionals involved in the management of gastrointestinal cancers.
Building on the experience of the previous fifteen conferences, IGICC 2026 will continue to connect clinical practice with current research. Participants attending online or in person will be able to hear from experienced national and international faculty, discuss recent evidence, and meet colleagues working in the same field.
We look forward to welcoming you to IGICC 2026 and to your contribution to the scientific discussions in Istanbul and online.
