Article • Congress preview

ECR 2025: Welcome to Planet Radiology!

Science, sustainability, and society – these are the three cornerstones of this year’s European Congress of Radiology (ECR) in Vienna, Austria. Following the motto “Planet Radiology”, the congress focuses on the environmental impact of diagnostic imaging while exploring ways to advance equitable global healthcare access. Congress President Prof. Andrea Rockall provides a preview on the upcoming event, discussing highlight sessions and new formats – and how radiologists can contribute to fixing our planet.

As radiologists from around the world have come to expect from ECR, this year’s scientific programme is again packed with insightful sessions from high-profile speakers. During its five-day runtime (Feb 26-Mar 2), the congress will explore cutting-edge advances in radiology, provide an overview of the latest and most exciting findings from clinical trials, and demonstrate how innovative interdisciplinary approaches bring new benefits for patient care. Visitors will also be sure to get their fair share of eye candy during the opening ceremony on the first day of the congress, auspiciously titled “Wonder”.

In view of the extensive and distinguished programme, Prof. Rockall is confident that the congress will be a truly one-of-a-kind experience for all congress attendees: ‘With the theme “Planet Radiology”, ECR 2025 will take the concept of planetary health and explore its key parts, including global sustainability, healthcare equity and scientific innovation.’

Striving to make the event more environmentally-friendly than ever, the organisers have introduced new ways to weave sustainability into the DNA of ECR. Prof. Rockall emphasizes: ‘As climate impacts grow, radiologists are positioned to be leaders in adopting greener practices and sustainable healthcare models. As such, you can expect educational sessions dedicated to this critical issue. These are supported by a number of green initiatives we have implemented at ECR 2025, including the offer of discounted rail travel to reduce attendees’ carbon footprints.’

ECR 2025 brings back popular favourites like the image interpretation quiz, open forums and the AI Theatre (Room D2 on level -2), while introducing fresh elements such as the all-new “Ask Me Anything” sessions. In these sessions, participants can directly engage with leading experts in their respective fields, who will share in-depth knowledge through a short lecture followed by an open discussion.

How to fix the world (as a radiologist)

Another notable addition to ECR is a format called “Imagers Fixing the World” (Room O2 and the In Focus Lounge on Level 1), which will showcase the impact of radiologists worldwide: ‘From providing teleservices in conflict zones and bringing ultrasound to the remotest regions to harnessing the power of AI and driving radiology’s green transition, Imagers Fixing the World will celebrate the people and projects that are advancing global health equity and planetary sustainability for the future,’ the organisers say.

Following congress tradition, ECR 2025 features several partner countries: During the “ESR Meets” sessions, attendees will learn how radiology is practiced in Morocco, Brazil, the UK and the Baltic countries. Working on the finishing touches for this year’s event, Prof. Rockall says: ‘I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who has worked and continues to work so tirelessly in making ECR 2025 a reality. The dedication and passion of so many, often behind the scenes, has shaped this congress into something truly special. I greatly look forward to welcoming you to Vienna, where we will explore “Planet Radiology” together.’ (WB)

26.02.2025