Emirates Society of Radiation Oncology (ESRO): Advancing Cancer Care in the UAE.

Abstract

Radiation oncology plays a crucial role in cancer treatment, with more than half of all cancer patients requiring radiotherapy at some stage. Despite rapid advancements in oncology services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the country has lacked a dedicated professional society for radiation oncology until now. The Emirates Society of Radiation Oncology (ESRO) was established in 2025 to address critical gaps in education, research, clinical practice, and policy advocacy within the field. This editorial highlights the rationale for ESRO's formation, including workforce training deficits, limited research collaboration, and the absence of unified clinical guidelines. ESRO aims to enhance professional development, foster multicenter research, advocate for evidence-based policy reforms, and standardize radiation oncology practices across the UAE. Through these efforts, ESRO seeks to elevate the quality of radiotherapy services, improve patient outcomes, and position the UAE as a key contributor to global advancements in radiation oncology. We call on all stakeholders, including oncologists, medical physicists, radiation therapists, policymakers, and healthcare institutions, to collaborate in realizing this vision for a stronger and more integrated radiation oncology community in the region.