World Head and Neck Cancer Day 2026
Published: 27 July 2026
In honour of World Head and Neck Cancer Day 2026, we have collated an update of GlaHNC (Glasgow Head and Neck Cancer Group) activities.
BAHNO 2026 | London
GLAHNC had a strong presence at BAHNO 2026. BAHNO is the professional body
for clinicians and professionals working in head and neck cancer across the UK. Dr Claire Paterson delivered a standout keynote lecture, “Where do we stand with neo-adjuvant immunotherapy in the UK?”, offering valuable insights into the seminal
KEYNOTE-689 publication on neoadjuvant and adjuvant pembrolizumab in locally
advanced head and neck cancer.
GLAHNC fellows were also very well represented throughout the meeting. Craig
Smith gave an oral presentation on “The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on
survival outcomes of head and neck cancer in the West of Scotland”. Miss Kate
Hulse presented “Digital symptom-tracking in patients with head and neck cancer: a
feasibility study”, and Dr Stephanie Anderson delivered a presentation on
socioeconomic disparities among clinical trial participants in head and neck cancer.
All three presenters were excellent ambassadors for GLAHNC, showcasing the
breadth and quality of research currently being undertaken within the group.
BACO 2026 | Glasgow
The British Academic Conference of Otolaryngology held its biennial conference in
Glasgow in June, bringing together specialists from across the field.
GLAHNC fellows were well represented, showcasing a range of work across head
and neck cancer research. Dominique Forson presented her poster investigating
inequalities in the treatment of head and neck cancer; her work was funded by a
Royal College of Radiologists Summer Scholarship in Clinical Oncology. Dr Lucy Li
presented her poster on molecular biomarkers associated with radiotherapy
outcomes in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. GLAHNC co-chairs Miss
Catriona Douglas and Dr Claire Paterson were also invited to participate in a lively
and thought-provoking panel discussion on the management of advanced laryngeal
cancer, where challenging clinical cases were explored alongside the latest evidence
to inform best practice.
Hunter-Doig Medal Winner
LAHNC co-chair Miss Catriona Douglas has been awarded the prestigious Hunter-Doig Medal by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, receiving the honour at
a ceremony in April 2026. The medal recognises individuals who have demonstrated
exceptional achievement while supporting and inspiring the progression of women in
surgery. Miss Douglas received the award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to surgery, academic excellence, and commitment to advancing women in the profession. Miss Douglas said
"I am deeply honoured to receive the Hunter-Doig Medal from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. This award is especially meaningful because it recognises not only surgical and academic achievement, but also the importance of supporting and inspiring women as they progress in surgery. I am grateful to the colleagues, mentors and teams who have supported me, and I hope this recognition helps encourage the next generation of women in our profession.”
First published: 27 July 2026