Author:

Marc Beishon

Date of publication: 22 December 2025
Last update: 22 December 2025

Abstract

Surgery has long been the cornerstone of cancer treatment, yet the recognition of surgical oncology as a distinct discipline remains limited across Europe. In most countries, surgeons are accredited by organ systems—such as thoracic or gastrointestinal—without formal acknowledgment of cancer-specific expertise. This lack of harmonized training and certification raises concerns about whether patients can trust that their surgeons possess the necessary oncological knowledge, technical skills, and multidisciplinary coordination required for complex cancer care. Evidence shows that outcomes improve in high-volume centers with specialized teams, but disparities persist in access, training, and accreditation. While audits and centralization have driven progress in some nations, the absence of standardized qualifications for cancer surgeons continues to hinder consistency in care. Initiatives such as the European Society of Surgical Oncology’s core curriculum and the BRESO certification for breast surgery represent steps toward formalizing cancer-focused surgical pathways. Comparisons with the United States highlight the potential of structured fellowships and accreditation systems to elevate surgical oncology as both a clinical and academic discipline. Ultimately, the article argues that cancer patients deserve assurance that their surgeons are not only technically proficient but also trained and assessed in oncological principles, embedded within expert multidisciplinary teams. Establishing harmonized standards across Europe is presented as essential to reducing inequalities, improving outcomes, and ensuring trust in surgical oncology.

Article

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Acknowledgement

The article was published on the Cancer World website on 4 June 2021.

We would like to thank the editor for kindly granting permission to republish the article.