My name is Chrysanthi Koukoutzeli, and I am a Medical Oncologist. I completed my medical studies in Italy and continued my professional path by specializing and working as a medical oncologist in Thessaloniki, Greece. My passion for oncology, my aspiration to specialize in breast cancer, and my special connection with Italy led me to the European Institute of Oncology (IEO) in Milan.(1) From the beginning of my career, breast cancer has been the field that inspired me to deepen my knowledge and dedicate myself to both its clinical and research aspects. Recognizing the importance of subspecialization in this area, I knew that the IEO was the ideal environment to advance my skills and grow scientifically.
This goal became a reality thanks to the Hellenic Society of Medical Oncology (ΗeSMO) fellowship programs, which gave me the opportunity to train in one of the most prestigious cancer centers worldwide.(2)
The IEO is one of the most internationally recognized and pioneering oncology hospitals and among the fastest growing comprehensive cancer centers in Europe. It was founded by Professor Umberto Veronesi, a leading surgeon and researcher with a tremendous impact on breast cancer treatment.(3) Veronesi was a pioneer in the development of breast-conserving surgical techniques, demonstrating for the first time that lumpectomy, followed by postoperative radiotherapy for small tumors is as safe as radical mastectomy, a groundbreaking innovation that dramatically improved patients’ quality of life. In addition, he introduced the sentinel lymph node biopsy, minimizing the need for extensive axillary dissections and setting new international standards in surgical oncology.
A decisive factor in choosing the IEO for my fellowship, beyond its pioneering spirit and excellence, was the presence of Professor Giuseppe Curigliano, one of the most prominent figures in modern oncology.(4) An oncologist with outstanding expertise in breast cancer, whom I deeply admired and aspired to work with.
Professor Curigliano is the Director of the Early Drug Development Division, the department where I had the opportunity to train and work as a clinical fellow, and Co-chair of the Experimental Therapeutics Program at IEO. He is also a member of the Steering Committee of the Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology at the University of Milan and the Italian National Health Council. Furthermore, he serves as Editor-in-Chief of ESMO Open and has been elected President of ESMO for 2027–2028 term.(5)
He has always been an inspiring mentor to young oncologists, a visionary and unifying figure within the international oncology community.
My fellowship at IEO was a unique experience of personal and professional growth. I remained at the Institute for two years: the first supported by the HeSMO fellowship, and the second working on specific research projects at IEO.
Under Professor Curigliano’s guidance, I actively participated in both clinical and research activities, focusing on breast cancer and novel targeted therapies. During my stay, I participated in outpatient clinics and patient treatments within the framework of clinical trials for breast cancer, closely observing patient selection and individualized therapeutic approaches for administering and monitoring novel agents. I was actively involved in multidisciplinary tumor boards, where complex treatment plans were discussed, responses and toxicities were evaluated, and therapeutic decisions were made in collaboration with specialized teams. At the same time, I took part in educational seminars and journal clubs, which expanded my knowledge of the most recent advances in oncology and offered valuable exposure to an innovative and demanding environment.
A particularly important aspect of my fellowship was my involvement in the BEACON and CARDIOCARE research projects, through which I collaborated with researchers from across Europe and had the opportunity to present our work at international scientific meetings.(6)(7) My collaboration with the Psycho-oncology Department broadened my perspective on the holistic management of cancer patients. BEACON’s multilingual digital platform enhanced international collaboration, promoted health literacy, and expanded access to innovative cancer therapies, thereby contributing to the reduction of disparities across geographic and socioeconomic contexts.(8)
In addition, I had the opportunity to contribute to the scientific writing activities of the team, both as lead and co-author, in publications focusing on innovative therapeutic strategies. This experience significantly enhanced my research mindset, critical thinking, and scientific writing skills.
My time at IEO brought me into contact with the cutting edge of modern oncology, providing invaluable knowledge in both clinical and research settings. Working in such an internationally renowned, well-structured, and scientifically demanding environment strengthened my skills as an oncologist, broadened my research perspective, and deepened my understanding of personalized cancer therapy.
This fellowship was a significant milestone in my career, reinforcing my ambition to continue offering high-quality patient care and to contribute actively to the advancement of oncology research in Greece and internationally. It also allowed me to rediscover the importance of teamwork and lifelong learning in patient care. And, of course, the beauty of living in Italy.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to HeSMO for their support and the opportunity they provided, and to Professor Giuseppe Curigliano for his guidance, inspiration, and collaboration throughout my time at IEO.
- Istituto Europeo di Oncologia [Internet]. [cited 2025 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.ieo.it/en/
- Hellenic Society of Medical Oncology (HeSMO) [Internet]. [cited 2025 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.hesmo.gr/en/
- Umberto Veronesi – Istituto Europeo di Oncologia [Internet]. [cited 2025 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.ieo.it/en/about_us/umberto_veronesi/
- Curigliano Giuseppe – Istituto Europeo di Oncologia [Internet]. [cited 2025 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.ieo.it/en/PNA/doctorSection/Curigliano-Giuseppe-BCADB8B8AFAFC9C7BACDC8A5CBCFCEAE/
- New ESMO President 2027-2028 Elected | ESMO [Internet]. [cited 2025 Oct 26]. Available from: https://www.esmo.org/society-updates/new-esmo-president-2027-2028-elected
- CANCER CARE BEACON – Istituto Europeo di Oncologia [Internet].
