EU support at every stage of the disease
Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan is a political commitment to turn the tide against cancer, as part of a strong European Health Union. Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan is made up of 10 flagship initiatives and 32 supporting actions.
It focusses on the entire disease pathway and is structured around four key action areas:
- prevention;
- early detection;
- diagnosis and treatment;
- quality of life of cancer patients and survivors.
With a €4 billion budget, the EU Cancer Plan makes use of all available funding instruments, including dozens of projects financed by the EU4Health programme, and implemented by the Health and Digital Executive Agency.
Prevention
In the area of cancer prevention, the EU is supporting several projects that promote healthy lifestyles and improve health literacy. This includes revising and updating the European Code against Cancer, stepping up vaccination against cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), encouraging healthy behaviours among children and providing healthcare professionals with appropriate training.
These projects collectively contribute to cancer prevention efforts with the ultimate goal of reducing cancer incidence and improving overall public health.
Early detection
The EU is financing several projects in the area of early detection, including to support equal access to cancer screening, data management and improving the quality and coverage of screening programmes in Europe. Some of the projects aim to reduce inequalities in cancer screening generally, and some are more targeted towards specific cancer sites such as lung, prostate or gastric cancer screening.
By leveraging technology, collaboration, and evidence-based approaches, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan can make a significant impact on lives and reducing the burden of cancer.
Diagnosis and treatment
Several projects aim at improving patient outcomes and reducing disparities across the European Union when it comes to cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes the development of a curriculum for inter-speciality training, a network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres and new Networks of Expertise which will enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing among experts. Other projects will improve oncological imaging, support drug repurposing and focus on personalised care and treatment.
These projects highlight the collaborative efforts across Europe to advance cancer diagnosis and treatment. By leveraging expertise, implementing innovative approaches, and addressing disparities, these initiatives aim to improve patient outcomes and ensure equitable access to quality cancer care throughout the EU.
Quality of life
With the aim of improving the quality of life, several EU Cancer Plan projects are enhancing the well-being of cancer patients, survivors, and their carers. This includes actions to utilise eHealth technologies as well as efforts to empower those who are affected by cancer so they can easily access treatment summaries, exchange information, and become ambassadors for others facing a cancer diagnosis.
By focusing on survivor empowerment, well-being, and connectivity, these initiatives are dedicated to enhancing the overall quality of life for cancer survivors across Europe.