The International Papillomavirus Society’s (IPVS) 36th Conference held at the EICC in November brought together global experts in the fight against HPV and the disease it causes. We spoke with Dr Kate Cuschieri, Director of the Scottish HPV Reference Laboratory and one of the co-chairs of the meeting to understand the event’s impact, legacy and how the EICC support went above and beyond the conference walls.
Q: What were the key objectives of the 36th IPVS Conference?
Dr Kate Cuschieri:
Two core goals of the conference were: advancing scientific knowledge about HPV and its implications, creating a long-lasting legacy that promotes health in the global community. One of the more unique aspects of this particular meeting was the focus on engaging the local community, particularly in a bid to raise awareness about HPV’s and on how individuals can reduce their risk of associated disease and cancer through vaccination and screening.
Q: How did the EICC support the legacy initiatives of the conference?
Dr Cuschieri:
The EICC was a genuinely exceptional partner in helping us build a sustainable legacy. Their team, led by Gayle McGuinn, went beyond the logistical aspects of hosting the conference. For example, they were instrumental in securing seed funding through the Incredible Impact Programme. This funding allowed us to develop educational workshops and public awareness campaigns that will extend the conference’s impact beyond its duration.
One of the key initiatives was the HPV-focused workshops delivered in high schools, particularly in areas with historically low vaccination rates. These workshops combined interactive elements like microscope demonstrations, a quiz and physical activities to engage students and improve their understanding of HPV-related cancer prevention.
Q: What were the challenges in creating a lasting legacy, and how did the seed funding help?
The seed funding acted as an invaluable dedicated resource. Importantly, such an award brings obligations so our need to act and create a programme of activities as a team was catalysed!
Dr Cuschieri:
Creating a meaningful and measurable legacy is always a challenge, especially with limited resources. The seed funding acted as an invaluable dedicated resource. Importantly, such an award brings obligations so our need to act and create a programme of activities as a team was catalysed! It was such a pleasure to be a small part of a brilliant team, the core of which included Eva Malone. Sheila Graham & Sharon Hanley from the Universities of Edinburgh Napier, Glasgow, and Aberdeen as well as Chris Amsinger the International HPV Awareness Campaign Officer. Collective efforts enabled us to develop materials for school workshops, and also outreach events for international students at universities who might not have received the HPV vaccine in their home countries
Q: Can you share specific outcomes from the legacy programs?
Dr Cuschieri:
The workshops in schools were well-received according to student feedback. Teachers also noted that students were remarkably engaged. Feedback highlighted improved awareness of HPV and willingness to consider vaccination which is great.
While it’s too early to attribute increased vaccination rates directly to these interventions, we observed consent rates moving in a positive direction. More broadly, these programs have laid the groundwork for continued efforts; a schedule to deliver more workshops across Scotland in 2025 is in place and will be supported and facilitated by a team of trained “science supporters” based in the Universities who are keen to engage in more outreach and community work
Q: The conference also had a strong public engagement element. How did that unfold?
Dr Cuschieri:
The ‘EICC Live’ lecture was a hugely welcome addition. It gave us a platform to engage the general public and showcased presentations from international experts as well as local health advocates and, through pre-recorded videos accounts from survivors of HPV associated disease. The Q and A session with the panel and audience at the end served as a great opportunity for interaction and undoubtedly some pretty challenging topics and issues were discussed openly.
Q: From your perspective, what makes the EICC a strong partner for events like the IPVS Conference?
Dr Cuschieri:
Their professionalism, creativity and collaborative spirit were exemplary. The team was proactive, ensuring everything from room setups to communication strategies was handled efficiently. They also managed to still make things fun. Importantly. their involvement in the legacy aspect, particularly Gayle’s leadership, was pivotal.
It’s rare to find a venue that not only meets logistical needs but also invests in the broader impact of the event.
Q: What’s next for the legacy of this conference?
Dr Cuschieri:
As mentioned with the help of the wider scientific community, we’re building on the momentum. There are plans for additional school-based workshops, university pop-up educational events and we are looking at integrating more HPV content into into undergraduate curriculums. The insights from this conference will also inform Scotland’s broader cervical cancer elimination strategies. We are optimistic about the long-term impact.
Q: Any final thoughts on the importance of legacy in conferences?
Dr Cuschieri:
Legacy is about creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the event itself. Conferences like this should inspire action, foster collaboration and leave tangible benefits for communities, to yield maximum, lasting impact. The 36th IPVS Conference, with the EICC’s support, shows how impactful events can be when legacy is at the heart of planning.
Thank you to Dr Cuschieri and the IPVS committee for your partnership during the 36th IPVS Conference. It’s been truly inspiring to see what collaboration, education and a shared commitment to public health can achieve.
For more stories on impactful events, visit the EICC Ideas Hub.