With cardiovascular diseases (CVD) continuing to be the primary cause of death within the European Union, the ESR commends the Commission for establishing the first-ever comprehensive EU-wide approach to tackling this public health crisis. 

The Pivotal Role of Medical Imaging in Cardiovascular Care 
The ESR emphasizes that the ambitious goals of the Safe Hearts Plan, specifically those regarding early detection, personalized prevention, and the integration of AI, cannot be achieved without the strategic integration of advanced medical imaging. 

Radiology is one of the cornerstones of modern cardiology. Techniques such as Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are no longer just diagnostic tools but are essential for early detection and screening, precision treatment for non-invasive interventions, and chronic disease management.  

Prof. Andrea Rockall, Chair of the ESR Board of Directors said: “The Safe Hearts Plan marks a historic shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention. Medical imaging is the ‘eye’ of this transition, providing the clarity needed to detect disease at its earliest, most treatable stages. The ESR stands ready to collaborate with the Commission, Member States, and healthcare organisations”.  

Medical imaging is essential to the Safe Hearts Plan, as standardised EU Health Check Protocols will rely on evidence-based imaging, such as low-dose CT, to identify high-risk individuals before cardiac events occur. As a pioneer in Artificial Intelligence, radiology provides the framework needed for the plan’s digital ambitions. The ESR community can support these efforts with the technical and clinical expertise required to ensure that the Incubator for AI translates new technologies into safer, more accurate cardiovascular diagnostics. 

The ESR is more prepared than ever to play an active role in the implementation of the Safe Hearts Plan to improve cardiovascular health of Europe’s citizens. We look forward to contributing our scientific expertise and ensuring that the imaging perspective is represented in every pillar of this landmark strategy. 

Media Contact: euaffairs@myesr.org 

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As we approach the festive season, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to you on behalf of the ESR Board of Directors. This moment of reflection reminds me how fortunate we are to be part of a community that continues to grow, evolve, and achieve remarkable things together.

This year has been a significant one for our society. 

Together, we experienced ECR 2025, witnessing “Planet Radiology” come to life for five days in Vienna. I remain truly humbled by the enthusiasm with which the radiological community embraced the congress and its theme. And I am deeply honoured that ECR 2025 was recently recognised with two Gold Awards at the Best Event Awards. These achievements reflect not individual effort, but the shared commitment, creativity, and engagement of our entire community.

In Cannes, many of us also gathered for the Annual Leadership Meeting (ALM 2025). This event offered an invaluable opportunity for leaders across Europe to exchange insights and engage in thoughtful discussions on the future of radiology and the strategic direction of the ESR. 

This year also marked the launch of several major ESR initiatives that I am especially proud of. The Green ID Certificate introduces a new certification framework to support environmentally responsible imaging practice – an important step towards embedding sustainability within the core of our profession. And ESR INSPIRE opens new pathways for members to contribute, volunteer, and collaborate more closely within the society. These initiatives reflect our dedication to shaping a radiology landscape that is sustainable, equitable, and prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

Additionally, this year we welcomed the launch of the brand new ESR App and the release of new translated versions of the ESR Modern Radiology eBook.

Looking ahead, 2026 promises to be another inspiring year. With its theme “Rays of Knowledge”, ECR 2026 will take place on March 4-8, celebrating the light that radiology brings to science, innovation, and patient care. This congress has already broken abstract submission records with a late-breaking abstract submission period currently ongoing. We are also excited to open our new ESR Brussels Office next year, which will strengthen the ESR’s engagement in EU policy, enhance our work in artificial intelligence, and ensure that the voice of radiology continues to be heard at the highest levels.

Thank you for your ongoing support, your partnership, and your unwavering dedication to radiology. I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday season and a joyful, healthy, and fulfilling New Year.

With warm regards,

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The society’s expanding network now includes members from 192 countries, reinforcing its role as one of the most internationally representative organisations in medical imaging and the largest radiological society worldwide. The sustained rise in membership reflects not only the strength of the radiology community but also the ESR’s strategic focus on outstanding education, unwavering advocacy, and inclusive global engagement. 

Over the past year, the ESR has introduced several new initiatives including the Green ID certification, a scheme to acknowledge and promote green practices in radiology departments worldwide, and the ESR INSPIRE, a volunteering platform dedicated to radiologists wishing to do more for the community. Such initiatives ensure that the ESR is actively shaping a more sustainable, socially engaged, and forward-thinking future for the field of radiology. 

In 2025, new resources have also been released to support radiologists at every stage of their careers. The ESR Modern Radiology eBook is now available in multiple languages and the ESR App will shortly be launched with the aim of making the society’s services and updates more accessible to members.  

“Our growing membership is a testament to the trust radiologists place in the ESR as a cornerstone of professional development and community”, said Andrea Rockall, Chair of the ESR Board of Directors. “This milestone reflects the collective dedication of thousands of experts committed to advancing patient care and shaping the future of imaging. We are proud to support their work and to continue broadening opportunities for collaboration worldwide.” 

Key benefits that continue to attract new members include reduced registration fees for the European Congress of Radiology (ECR), access to a comprehensive range of ESOR educational programmes, and subscription to the ESR’s flagship journal European Radiology. 

Membership for 2026 is now open. Learn more here.

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The ECR Heart, a central element of the 2025 congress’s visual identity, embodies connection, openness, and the spirit of a community committed to advancing radiology. Its presence in Milan reflects the deep alignment between ESR and Bracco and the shared purpose that has guided years of collaboration. 

“We are honoured to welcome the ECR Heart to our headquarters,” said Fulvio Renoldi Bracco, CEO, Bracco Imaging “For us, this gesture is deeply meaningful. It reminds us of the values we share with ESR: curiosity, scientific attention, and the desire to keep pushing our field forward. Seeing the Heart here, where our heritage meets our daily work, is a moment of genuine pride for the entire Bracco community.” 

“The ECR Heart beautifully expresses how art and science come together to inspire progress”, said Diana Bracco, President & CEO, Bracco Group, “reminding us that the pursuit of knowledge is also an act of imagination—where form, symbolism, and creativity elevate scientific innovation and give it deeper meaning for our community.”

The ceremony also underscored how the partnership between ESR and Bracco has grown through dialogue, joint initiatives, and a mutual dedication to supporting the radiology ecosystem. 

“The ECR Heart is a reminder of the unity, innovation, and shared purpose that drive our radiology community forward,” said ESR Chair of the Board of Directors, Andrea Rockall. ”To see it welcomed here in Milan by a long-standing and valued partner like Bracco is truly meaningful. Our collaboration has always been rooted in mutual respect and a commitment to advancing patient care, and this moment reflects that spirit beautifully.”  

“This symbol invites us to look ahead with optimism,” Fulvio Renoldi Bracco added. “We are grateful to ESR for entrusting us with the Heart, and we look forward to continuing our journey together, an ongoing commitment to radiologists, patients, and the future of imaging.” 

With the ECR Heart now housed in Bracco’s Milan headquarters, the bond between the two organisations is further strengthened, a lasting reminder of what can flourish when collaboration and shared purpose shape the path forward. 

About Bracco Imaging 
Bracco Imaging is a global leader in diagnostic imaging, dedicated to improving people’s lives by shaping the future of prevention and precision medicine. With a strong passion for innovation, the company develops and provides a broad portfolio of pharmaceutical products for diagnostic imaging: contrast agents for X-ray, Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), as well microbubbles for Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS), and Molecular Imaging through radioactive tracers and novel PET imaging agents, alongside specialized medical devices and related services. 
The company is committed to advancing radiology by sharing knowledge to cultivate future thought leaders, linking today’s practice with tomorrow’s progress. Since 1927, Bracco Imaging has grown to more than 3,800 employees and now supports patients and radiology professionals in over 100 countries.
Discover Bracco Imaging at www.bracco.com. 

About the European Congress of Radiology  
The ECR is the annual meeting of the European Society of Radiology (ESR), representing more than 142,000 members from 188 countries. As one of the largest medical congresses globally, the ECR attracts thousands of participants each year. Its technical exhibition showcases hundreds of companies and stands as one of Europe’s premier medical exhibitions. 

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Early detection and population screening formed a major focus of this year’s programme. Presentations examined progress in lung cancer screening, the growing role of CT-based coronary artery calcium scoring for cardiovascular risk assessment, and the potential of MRI-based pathways in prostate cancer screening. Together, these sessions underscored radiology’s central role in shaping earlier, more effective diagnosis of major diseases. 

Artificial intelligence was another defining theme. Participants explored how radiologists can be prepared to guide AI implementation through dedicated training, ethical and regulatory awareness, and a strong understanding of workflows and system design. The meeting also addressed the challenges of bringing AI tools into practice, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary evaluation, responsible procurement, and realistic assessment of clinical benefit. The potential of generative AI to relieve pressure on busy imaging departments was widely discussed, recognising both its promise and the need for robust oversight. 

As well as trending topics, the event also offered an opportunity to present the ESR and EBR’s most recent initiatives, including the recent launch of the ESR Green ID certification scheme and the ESR INSPIRE volunteering programme. Important updates were also given on the continued expansion of the Modern Radiology eBook, developments across the ESR Journal Family, and the most recent activities of EuroSafe Imaging, the European School of Radiology (ESOR) and the European Diploma in Radiology (EDiR).  

The meeting also provided an update on major EU-funded research efforts coordinated by the European Institute for Biomedical Imaging Research (EIBIR), such as the newly initiated RHYTHM project, which aims to improve radiation safety and imaging quality for young patients across Europe. EIBIR’s growing project portfolio reflects its role as a key driver of imaging research and innovation at the European level. Its coordinated platforms, data infrastructures, and capacity-building programmes continue to support harmonised imaging standards, improve international collaboration, and strengthen the scientific foundations of radiology practice. 

“Radiology stands at a transformative crossroads, and this meeting demonstrated the determination of our community to steer that transformation with clarity, responsibility, and ambition”, stated ESR Chair of the Board of Directors Andrea Rockall. “From screening innovation to the ethical integration of AI, our focus is on building a future where imaging is more precise, equitable, and sustainable. The collaboration we saw in Cannes reinforces that we are ready to lead that progress together”. 

Across sessions, participants reaffirmed the importance of coordinated action in areas such as screening implementation, AI adoption, quality and safety, and sustainable workforce solutions. These priorities align with broader ESR commitments to scientific excellence, innovation, and equitable access to care. 

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued collaboration as the ESR looks ahead to ECR 2026, where many of the themes discussed in Cannes will be further explored. 

ALM 2026 will take place in Brussels on the occasion of the official opening of the ESR’s new Brussel’s office.  

A recording of all presentations at the ALM 2025 is available on ESR Connect. 

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The congress brought together a broad international community and featured a five-day immersive design that integrated lectures, interactive installations and VR elements into a unified narrative. A digitally created world developed in Unreal Engine, enhanced with LED panels, 3D animation and motion capture, guided participants through thematic environments and made the central message tangible throughout the venue. This distinctive concept strengthened engagement across the meeting and reinforced ECR 2025’s position as one of the most innovative and inspiring happenings far across the border of medical imaging. 

The ESR extends its sincere thanks to all participants, contributors, partners and teams whose work shaped ECR 2025. Winning two Gold Awards at the BEA World Festival is an important recognition of the Society’s ongoing commitment to delivering a high-quality, impactful and globally relevant congress. 

Media Contact
European Society of Radiology
David Zizka
+43 153 340 645 45
david.zizka@myESR.org

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Cancer Image Europe invites patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the general public to participate in this public webinar.

EUCAIM is the flagship project implementing the European Cancer Imaging Initiative, a major initiative under Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan.The project aim is to improve cancer care across Europe by integrating advanced imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, while ensuring secure and ethical use of patient data.

What the webinar will cover:

• Why EUCAIM matters for patients and how it supports earlier detection and more precise treatment
• Patient perspectives and the importance of trust and engagement in AI-supported healthcare
• How EUCAIM works: secure data sharing, contributions from hospitals and researchers, and data privacy safeguards
• Clinical applications and future benefits for cancer care across Europe

This 1-hour session offers an opportunity to understand how innovation in imaging and AI can improve patient outcomes while upholding EU standards for data protection and ethical healthcare.

Registration:
Zoom Registration

Learn more about the program and speakers:
EUCAIM Webinar Details

Learn more about EUCAIM:
Lay summary about EUCAIM

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The decision to open the Brussels office underlines the ESR’s role as the leading society in imaging and the largest medical society in Europe. As well as representing the interests of the ESR and its stakeholders, the Brussels office will attract young talent and act as a hub for the European Institute for Biomedical Imaging Research (EIBIR), the ESR Institutional Members, including national societies and 15 Subspecialty Member Societies, and many other partners and stakeholders across the imaging community. 

Furthermore, in the greatest spirit of collaboration, the ESR will share the new premises with the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM), which will have a dedicated working space within the building. This partnership, the first of its kind, reflects the ESR’s ongoing commitment to developing interdisciplinary collaboration in the medical imaging field. The new offices will also have the potential to support other societies allied with radiology in the future.  

“By establishing a presence in Brussels, the ESR will enhance its ability to actively engage in EU health policy,” stated Andrea Rockall, ESR Chair of the Board of Directors. “It will ensure that the voice of the imaging community is heard in critical policy discussions, strengthening the society’s position as an advocate for the integration of imaging across multiple medical disciplines.” 

As the role of artificial intelligence in radiology and medicine more generally grows, the new offices will also become a focal point for the ESR’s activities in this realm, as the society increases its work with EU bodies and stakeholders to determine how this technology is utilised and regulated in healthcare. 

The headquarters will provide opportunities for the society to deepen engagement with the EU institutions and to expand its role as a key stakeholder in key health policies, including digital health, the EU Apply AI Strategy, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, in particular the European Cancer Imaging initiative and lung and prostate cancer screening implementation, as well as the forthcoming EU Cardiovascular Health Plan. 

Additionally, it will expand initiatives such as EuroSafe Imaging and the European Alliance for Medical Radiation Protection Research (EURAMED), promoting quality and safety in imaging as well as related research, and enhance the ESR’s ability to collaborate with other stakeholders in alliances, including the European Cancer Organisation (ECO). 

In future, the ESR will make its Brussels location also the venue for its Annual Leadership Meeting, underpinning the location’s goal to be a central hub for national radiological societies, subspecialty societies, patient groups, industry leaders and policy makers to exchange insights and discuss the latest developments in radiology and healthcare policy.

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Participants from 104 countries tuned in live, demonstrating the strong international reach and continued relevance of EuroSafe Imaging’s mission to promote radiation protection and dose optimisation worldwide.

Now in its fourth consecutive year as a CME-accredited series, the webinars continue to offer cutting-edge, practical education designed for radiologists, radiographers, and medical physicists. The series features four interactive webinars, each focusing on a different anatomical area, head CT, chest CT, cardiac and vascular CT, and abdominal CT, providing expert insights and real-world examples to help imaging professionals achieve diagnostic image quality in CT scans while avoiding artefacts, balance radiation dose and image quality effectively, recognise both common and uncommon causes of unnecessary radiation exposure, and select optimal protocols based on specific clinical indications.

“The EuroSafe Imaging Webinar Series has established itself as a leading global platform for interdisciplinary dialogue on radiation protection, bringing together Radiologists, Radiographers, and Medical Physicists”, said Graciano Paulo, Co-Chair of the EuroSafe Imaging Educational Activities Working Group. “The high level of professional engagement, from all around the world, continues to drive our commitment to excellence in the quality of care provided by medical imaging departments”. 

“The webinar series has become a meeting point for imaging professionals around the globe united by a common purpose: to image safely and wisely”, added Deniz Akata, another Co-Chair of the working group. “This outstanding participation energises us to continue fostering excellence and sustainability in radiology practice”.

All EuroSafe Imaging 2025 webinars are free of charge for ESR members and will be available on demand via the ESR Premium Education Package, ensuring continuous access to high-quality learning materials for professionals worldwide. The next episode in the series, focusing on chest CT, will take place on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

EuroSafe Imaging is an initiative of the ESR dedicated to promoting radiation protection in medical imaging. Through educational programmes, campaigns, and collaborative research, EuroSafe Imaging aims to ensure the highest standards of patient safety, quality, and responsibility in radiological practice.

Registration for upcoming episodes of the series can be done on ESR Connect.

Media Contact
European Society of Radiology
David Zizka
+43 153 340 645 45
david.Zizka@myESR.org

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