The Patient Advocates Committee (PA) within the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) is a dedicated group of individuals committed to ensuring that the IASLC effectively addresses the informational needs of the public, advocates, and patients living with lung and thoracic cancers regarding issues of importance in thoracic oncology. The PA Committee works to address the direct impact research has on its beneficiaries, patients with lung cancer, and how they can support continued research to improve treatment options and availability. By actively advocating for patient perspectives, the PA Committee informs decision-making processes by the IASLC Board and other committees to ensure that the Association's activities align with the needs of patients with lung cancer.
Committee projects
Chair of Committee
Merel Hennink
2025-2027
2025-2027 Roster
Isabelle Opitz
Switzerland
University Hospital Zurich
Board Liaison
Jill Feldman
United States
EGFR Resisters
Committee Member
Shani Shilo
Israel
The Israel Lung Cancer Foundation
Committee Member
Satoko Yamaoka
Japan
ARUN
Committee Member
Committee Responsibilities:
- Provide Recommendations to the IASLC Board: The PA Committee will proactively provide recommendations to the IASLC Board about issues facing patients and the patient advocate community. These recommendations will be derived from insights gained through ongoing engagement with patients, caregivers, and advocacy groups and will serve to guide the Association's initiatives and policies, prioritizing patient-centered approaches.
- Advocate for Patient and Caregiver Involvement: The Committee will actively advise and advocate for effective ways to involve more patients and caregivers in the activities of the Association. By promoting inclusive patient engagement, the Committee aims to ensure that patient perspectives are heard, valued, and integrated into all aspects of lung cancer care and research.
- Consultation and Feedback: Members of the PA Committee will provide consultation and feedback, as requested, on the development of materials and content that support the informational needs of healthcare providers, the public, and patient advocates. This feedback will help ensure that educational resources are tailored to the diverse needs of stakeholders.
- Maximize Funding Opportunities and Collaboration: The activities of the PA Committee will strategically support the IASLC in maximizing funding opportunities and fostering collaboration on research funding related to lung cancer. By advocating for resources and research support, the Committee contributes to advancing patient-centered care and initiatives.
- Collaboration with Advocacy Groups: The Committee will actively collaborate with other Lung Cancer Advocacy Groups, both within and outside the IASLC, to identify opportunities and make recommendations to the Board of Directors on how advocacy-related issues and sessions can be better incorporated into the World Conference and other IASLC meeting programs.