The annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is one of the largest and most important oncology meetings, gathering over 22,000 laboratory researchers, clinicians, patient advocates and other oncology professionals from around the world. This year, the 109th meeting took place at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois, and more than 6,000 proffered papers were presented. Presentations covered the latest basic, translational, clinical and prevention-focused research in the field, including important areas such as early detection, cancer interception and survivorship in all populations. A record number of oncology trials were presented this year, with approximately 170 completed trials or trials-in-progress. The theme of the meeting was 'Driving Innovative Cancer Science to Patient Care', reflecting the importance of cancer research advances in improving clinical care.