Description: 

This session will explore the evolving landscape of cancer screening in veterinary medicine through the lens of human oncology. By examining the historical progression of cancer screening in people -- from reactive diagnosis to proactive, population-level screening -- we will highlight how similar trends are emerging in veterinary practice. In human medicine, screening tools such as mammography, colonoscopy and liquid biopsy have improved early detection, outcomes, and survivability. Veterinary oncology appears to be following a similar path, with innovations like liquid biopsy enabling earlier, less invasive cancer detection in pets. These technologies are shifting the focus from diagnosing cancer at the point of clinical illness to identifying disease at potentially an earlier stage. Attendees will gain insight into how veterinary cancer screening is rapidly evolving, what we can learn from decades of progress in human medicine, and how proactive diagnostics can redefine the continuum of care in companion animals. This presentation will also address current patterns of implementation, limitations, and future directions for integrating screening strategies into everyday veterinary practice.

DATE: 

Tuesday, August 4th, 2026

6:10pm: Registration 

6:45pm: Dinner

7:00pm: Presentation 

 

Presenter: 

Full Name
Carissa Norquest
Speaker Bio
Dr. Carissa Norquest, DVM, DACVIM Oncology is a board‑certified veterinary oncologist who attended veterinary school at Auburn University before completing her oncology training at the University of Missouri. She has a clinical interest in the nonsurgical management of osteosarcoma and a deep passion for both client and peer education. Dr. Norquest recently joined IDEXX to support their vision of driving the future of cancer care forward for pets and the people who love them. In her role as a Specialist Support Veterinarian, she partners closely with fellow veterinarians to strengthen confidence in diagnostic interpretation and integrate diagnostic findings into everyday clinical decision‑making.

Location: