Preface

Abstract

This volume contains the proceedings of the 9th “International Conference on Thrombosis and Hemostasis Issues in Cancer”, the ICTHIC, held in Bergamo, Italy, April 13–15, 2018. As in the past, this conference focuses on translational research with a strong emphasis on the application of basic science concepts to solving clinical problems in patients with cancer and hemostatic disorders (bleeding and/or thrombosis). We present at the ICTHIC the latest (frequently unpublished) data from our colleagues, who study the pathophysiology, prevention and treatment of thrombosis and bleeding in cancer. The relatively informal setting of this meeting encourages basic scientists to discuss the design, implementation and analysis of data from studies of traditional and novel therapies in patients with cancer. This relatively “small” and intimate meeting is by now a well-known venue (“the Bergamo Conference”). It is somewhat unique in that basic scientists and clinicians meeting together often develop important collaborations at the Bergamo Conference, applying understanding of basic tumor biology and hemostasis/thrombosis to the solution of problems related to the management of cancer patients. Our biostatistical colleagues and experts in clinical epidemiology also attend this meeting, providing critical analysis of the latest findings from large clinical trials, prospective and retrospective registries and “big databases”. Several sessions are devoted to updates from these large trials and registries, allowing all of us to assess the progress in the field over the 2 years since we last met.