ABS Conference 2026: Shaping the Future of Breast Care in Glasgow

As ABS President, it is my privilege to invite you to our upcoming ABS Conference 2026, which is always a major educational and collaborative event for all breast care practitioners.

The conference has embraced a truly multidisciplinary approach, with distinguished speakers who will share current research, guidelines and insights encompassing all aspects of breast care. Across parallel sessions and interactive discussions, you will explore topics spanning service delivery, surgical innovation, oncology, imaging, pathology, disparities in care, lifestyle interventions, and more. From workforce challenges and training the next generation of oncoplastic surgeons, to advances in personalised risk, reconstruction techniques and next-generation therapies, the programme has been designed to support every member of the MDT.

Our invited lectures will be given by Professor Tari King on ‘Unravelling the lobular phenotype’, Professor Alberto Rancati on ‘Not all mastectomies are the same’, and ABS Past President Leena Chagla on ‘Cancer: Why me?’.  I’m very much looking forward to their expertise and insights.

This year, we will also be expanding the learning opportunities with our ‘Education in the exhibition’ series. These accessible sessions will take place in the main exhibition hall during the breaks, with speakers sharing their top tips on skills that are increasingly vital in today’s healthcare environment, such as writing a successful business case and how to apply for a grant and more highly useful topics for all colleagues! Be sure to stop by in between the main sessions.

Beyond the lecture halls, the ABS Conference is renowned for its welcoming and vibrant atmosphere and gives us the chance to connect and socialise with colleagues from around the world.

The Annual Dinner is a great opportunity to relax after a day of engaging sessions. Since this year's event includes a ceilidh – a fitting choice for our host city of Glasgow - remember to bring your dancing shoes for what promises to be an entertaining evening.

I would encourage anyone who hasn’t attended before to come along and experience the very best in breast care education, reconnect with colleagues and friends, meet leading experts, and share knowledge and expertise.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Sarah Downey
ABS President