Dear colleagues,

We are pleased to invite you to the 3rd Session of the Interactive Courses of the Greek Research Group for Uro-Genital Cancer (HGUCG) for the academic year 2014-2015.

The topic of the courses focuses on cancer of the uro-genital system, which is a major cause of morbidity and mortality both globally and locally, particularly affecting the male population.

The last decade has been marked by significant progress in the management of malignant neoplasms of the urinary system, while clinical and basic research in this field has made notable advances to the benefit of patients suffering from such neoplasms. These advancements have clearly demonstrated that in order for the progress made to translate into improved management of patients with these diseases, closer cooperation is required among specialists involved in the management of these patients (urologists, oncologists, and radiotherapists). Therefore, in order to enhance this collaboration and to provide up-to-date information on the latest developments in this field, we believe it is important to approach younger colleagues through a series of interactive courses on uro-genital cancer.

These courses include cutting-edge topics related to diagnosis and treatment, with a focus on areas where daily practice may deviate from current guidelines. The discussion is based on real-life cases, presented by younger colleagues, followed by an in-depth discussion and analysis by invited commentators with recognized activity in the subject under discussion. The organization of interactive courses is an ideal platform for enhancing cooperation among specialists and spreading the latest developments to younger colleagues, so that the management of patients with such neoplasms can be improved.

This initiative arises from the collaboration between the Greek Research Group for Uro-Genital Cancer (HGUCG) and the Group of Young Greek Oncologists (ΟΝΕΟ) and has been placed under the auspices of the Hellenic Society of Medical Oncology (ΕΟΠΕ). Coordinators, speakers, and commentators include distinguished oncologists, urologists, and radiotherapists with particular experience and activity in uro-genital cancer. In this way, there is widespread and dynamic participation of our younger colleagues in a process that will largely depend on their involvement. We hope this will create a positive environment for the exchange of ideas and the transmission of knowledge under the current challenging conditions for medicine and society at large.

The first lesson on "Testicular Cancer" took place last November, and in March, the second session on "Urothelial Cancer" was held. Both the response and the evaluation from the younger colleagues who attended were particularly encouraging for the continuation of this educational effort. The 3rd lesson will take place on Monday, June 22, 2015, with the topic "Kidney Cancer". In this lesson, we are pleased to host Professor of Urology at the University of Athens, Mr. Dionysios Mitropoulos, who will deliver a state-of-the-art lecture on the topic: "The Role of the Urologist in Metastatic Kidney Cancer".

As part of efforts to encourage the participation of as many colleagues as possible, HGUCG will cover travel and accommodation expenses for 5 younger colleagues working in hospitals outside Athens. A priority order will be followed for the selection of these colleagues, and additional applications will be considered for covering candidates in future sessions.

Please send the completed Application for participation in the courses, which can be found in the section: How can I participate in the activities of HGUCG.

Coordination-Scientific Committee:

Athanasios Delli, Nikolaos Tsoukalas, Evangelos Voulgaris, Konstantinos Koutsoukos.