Queen Letizia of Spain will join international cancer leaders, researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, and policymakers in Brussels on September 23, 2026, for the 10th World Cancer Research Day International Event, highlighting the role of global collaboration in accelerating progress against cancer.
Held under the presidency of Her Majesty Queen Letizia, Honorary President of the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC), and HRH Princess Dina Mired of Jordan, Honorary President of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), the event will explore how research partnerships can help improve cancer prevention, treatment, and patient outcomes.
Organized by EORTC and AECC, the meeting will take place under the theme “Advancing Cancer Research Together” and will bring together voices from across the cancer community to discuss the future priorities of oncology research.
Queen Letizia’s Longstanding Commitment to Cancer Advocacy
Queen Letizia’s participation reflects her long-standing engagement with cancer research and patient advocacy. Since 2010, she has served as Honorary President of AECC and the AECC Scientific Foundation, supporting initiatives focused on cancer research, prevention, awareness, and support for patients and families.
Through her role, Queen Letizia has repeatedly highlighted the importance of scientific research in transforming cancer care and improving outcomes for people affected by the disease. Her involvement has included engagement with researchers, healthcare professionals, patient organizations, and international cancer institutions working to advance oncology.
Her participation in World Cancer Research Day activities has also emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing global cancer challenges.
Marking a Decade of World Cancer Research Day
The 2026 event marks the 10th anniversary of World Cancer Research Day, an initiative dedicated to recognizing the critical role of cancer research in driving progress against the disease.
The anniversary gathering will focus on several key topics shaping the future of oncology, including:
- The next priorities for cancer research;
- The importance of academic clinical trials;
- The role of patients in shaping research agendas;
- Opportunities for international collaboration to accelerate scientific discoveries.
The event follows the 50th anniversary celebrations of EORTC, marking five decades of investigator-driven cancer research and international collaboration.
International Cancer Leaders to Discuss the Future of Oncology Research
The Brussels meeting will feature leaders from across the cancer research ecosystem, including researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and patient representatives.
Speakers include HRH Princess Dina Mired of Jordan, Honorary President of EORTC; Denis Lacombe, CEO of EORTC; Benjamin Besse, President of EORTC; Ramon Reyes, President of AECC; and María Lamas, Executive Director of the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS), alongside additional international experts and patient representatives.
Discussions will focus on how stronger collaboration between scientists, healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers can help translate research advances into meaningful improvements in cancer care.
Event Details
Event: World Cancer Research Day International Event 2026
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Time: 15:00–16:00 CEST
Location: Brussels, Belgium (with online participation available)
Theme: Advancing Cancer Research Together
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