In the wake of ongoing discussions regarding the future of the 10th European Framework Programme for Research and Development, Horizon Europe, this position paper presents the ECHoS consortium’s reflections on the challenges and opportunities identified, alongside recommendations to the European Commission to maintain investment in cancer research. Such investment is viewed as a critical means of consolidating Europe’s position as a global leader in this field.
This paper articulates the consortium’s vision for the future of the EU Mission on Cancer and the European Beating Cancer Plan. While some recommendations align closely with the consortium’s own objectives, reflecting our belief in their value for the broader European community, others extend beyond our immediate remit.
Executive Summary
Cancer remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Europe, with profound consequences for individuals, health systems, and the economy. According to the European Cancer Information System (ECIS), a total of 2 742 447 new cancer cases were estimated to be diagnosed in the EU in 2022, and this figure is projected to rise to 3.25 million by 2040. Beyond the human toll, the economic burden of cancer in Europe exceeds 199 billion euros annually.
In response, the EU Commission has launched two strategic actions, the EU Mission on Cancer and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan (EBCP). Both have laid the groundwork for several ambitious and coordinated actions, bridging research, innovation, public policy and deployment. These efforts have led to the launch of important initiatives such as the European Cancer Patient Digital Centre (ECPDC), the Knowledge Centre on Cancer, the Network of Comprehensive Cancer Infrastructures, and the establishment of National Cancer Mission Hubs (NCMHs) across Member States and Associated Countries (MS/AC). To ensure long-term sustainability and maximise the results of activities initiated under the EU Mission on Cancer and EBCP, the forthcoming Framework Programme for Research and Innovation 2028-2034 (FP10) must continue providing support to multisectoral actions capable of aligning Research, Innovation, Policy and Deployment in all member states across the entire cancer continuum.
This is of special relevance in times where Europe is facing major humanitarian needs, such as those imposed by heightened migrant flows resulting from geopolitical instability in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. In addition, a cohesive and strong investment in evidence-based actions is of utmost importance to resist to increasingly sophisticated disinformation campaigns seriously undermining public trust in health systems and scientific advancements.
A robust and well-funded FP10 is thus critical to continue building the European society, helping it to resist emerging extremist movements, and bolster resilience within both research and health systems. This Position Report presents a strategic vision to strengthen Europe’s leadership in health promotion and cancer control, based on eight actionable recommendations designed to ensure long-lasting, equitable, and impactful progress.
The document was initially drafted by a group of partners as part of Work Package 4 activities and subsequently shared across the consortium. Contributions from all members were integrated, making this a collective output.
Other articles featuring ECHoS on OncoDaily.