George Kapetanakis Announced ELLOK’s Designation as Greece’s National Cancer Mission Hub at 2nd Forum on Cancer Synergies

During the 2nd Forum on Cancer Synergies, George Kapetanakis, President of the Hellenic Cancer Federation (ELLOK), announced a momentous step forward in the country’s cancer care landscape: the formal recognition of ELLOK as the National Cancer Mission Hub of Greece, signifies not only the beginning of a new phase for cancer policy in Greece but also a powerful affirmation of ELLOK’s long-standing commitment to putting people at the center of cancer care.

“This Hub is not simply a new title – it is a declaration of intent,” said George Kapetanakis. “It reflects a national and European vision in which patients, survivors, and civil society are not afterthoughts in health policy, but equal partners in shaping its future.”

Kapetanakis emphasized that this recognition redefines the role of Patient Organizations and Civil Society in European cancer policy, elevating them from observers to co-creators of meaningful change.

A Platform for Collaboration and Impact

As the official National Cancer Mission Hub of Greece, ELLOK will:

• Serve as a catalyst for cross-sector collaboration among clinicians, researchers, patients, policymakers, and industry.
• Promote health literacy and cancer prevention at the population level.
• Enhance early detection and access to innovative treatments.
• Support data-driven policies and the responsible use of health information.
• Prioritize psychosocial and palliative care, and emphasize equity in care.

“Our goal,” Kapetanakis stated, “is to help transform cancer care into something more sustainable, equitable, and human-centered — something that supports not just survival, but the full recovery and reintegration of each person affected.”

Putting People First – From Vision to Reality

Kapetanakis reiterated ELLOK’s founding principle – “Putting People First” – as not only a motto, but a responsibility. As Greece’s official Hub, ELLOK now has the opportunity to make this principle a reality by fostering a system that supports patients holistically — body, mind, and life.

“True innovation in cancer care means empowering patients to help shape the very systems meant to support them.”

He emphasized the need for:

• True partnership with the state and other health stakeholders
• Policy development that addresses not only disease, but the social and economic dimensions of living with cancer
• A European spirit of collaboration, through which best practices and shared values can drive collective progress

Acknowledging the People Who Made It Possible

Kapetanakis expressed heartfelt thanks to all those who helped make this moment possible:

• To Minister of Health Adonis Georgiadis, whose vision and decisive support played a critical role in securing Greece’s official nomination.
• To Ms. Sofia Xesfiggi of the National Documentation Centre, for her tireless efforts and strategic guidance throughout the candidacy process.
• And above all, to the 50 Member Patient Organizations, as well as the patients and families themselves, whose voices, perseverance, and hope are the driving force behind every step ELLOK takes.

“We owe this achievement to those who live with cancer every day,” he said. “They are the reason we do this work — and the reason we will never stop striving for better.”

A Shared Future Starts Now

Kapetanakis closed with a message of unity and purpose:

“Let this be more than a celebration — let it be a call to action. Cancer care must always begin and end with people. With this new role, ELLOK is ready to light the way — with empathy, with courage, and with the strength of our shared mission.”

About The 2nd Forum on Cancer Synergies by ELLOK

The 2nd Forum on Cancer Synergies – Policy, Research and Funding Strategies by ELLOK is taking place at Wyndham Grand Athens, from June 30 – July 1st, 2025.

The 2nd Forum on Cancer Synergies focuses on policy, research, and funding strategies to improve cancer care and outcomes. This event brings together policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to discuss the latest developments in cancer research, share insights on funding opportunities, and explore collaborative strategies for tackling cancer. It aims to foster partnerships and drive progress in the fight against cancer through innovative policy and funding initiatives.