Cancer concerns us all - Statement by Commissioner Kyriakides on the occasion of the European Week Against Cancer

“Together, we can take away the fear and uncertainty that come with a cancer diagnosis and replace them with knowledge, determination, dignity and hope.

These closing lines from Europe's Beating Cancer Plan resonate just as much today as they did when we presented the Plan in 2021. As the European Week Against Cancer begins, let us recall some of the progress that we have made during these past years and how this is translated into improving the lives of those touched by cancer.

Backed by funding of €4 billion, we have launched a record number of projects, actions and initiatives addressing each stage of this disease, from prevention to early detection and treatment, as well as quality of life. This includes dozens of projects supported by the EU4Health programme that bring together the expertise from across the EU. I am confident these actions have great potential to bring about real change.

Prevention  is better than cure. Sadly, strong inequalities persist in exposure to risk factors, particularly affecting those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. With the revised European Code Against Cancer, we want to make sure that the latest science is incorporated in advice and guidance to the public. Our new EU approach to cancer screening has made strides in early detection in addition to the #GetScreenedEU awareness raising campaign. We will also soon be launching  a joint action on the implementation of cancer screening programmes, funded with over €30 million.

Today, thanks to progress in science, those diagnosed with cancer have better survival rates  than ever before and we continue to work with EU countries to ensure everyone has access to the best treatment options available. But, obstacles continue to exist for those with lived cancer experience. Later this week, we will publish a study on job retention and return to work for cancer patients and those with cancer experience. We also continue the conversation at EU level towards ensuring ‘the right to be forgotten' when it comes to accessing financial services.

In a strong European Health Union, nobody should be left behind regardless of their medical predisposition, prognosis or history.

Cancer touches us all. Only in the time taken to read this statement, around five new cancer cases have been diagnosed. This European Week Against Cancer, we owe it to them – and all those touched by cancer – to continue making a change, spreading dignity and hope for all.“