Invest in research and early screening to beat cancer

The EPP Group wants the EU to support Member States to vastly increase cancer screening programmes and to ensure people have fair access to effective treatment, regardless of where they live. Ahead of today’s European Parliament vote on an interim review of the EU’s Beating Cancer Plan, the EPP Group also urges more investment in medical research and innovation. 

The Beating Cancer Plan has failed to achieve its goal of ensuring 90 per cent of the target population was offered breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening by 2025. Worryingly, participation rates for some screening programmes are stagnating or declining. The EPP Group stresses the need for stronger EU action as approximately one in every two EU citizens is now expected to be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime.

"Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the EU and, sadly, the numbers are increasing. Every European family has been touched by cancer or knows someone affected. While there is positive news of increasing survival rates for many types of cancer, much stronger EU action is needed to defeat the disease," said Bartosz Arłukowicz MEP, the EPP Group’s lead negotiator on the file.

"We know that early detection saves lives. Yet, too many Europeans still lack access to timely screening programmes. The EU must prioritise ending these unacceptable disparities, whether they exist between countries or regions. That’s one way we can improve people’s survival chances EU-wide," Arłukowicz added.

"Europe has the scientific talent and the medical expertise to lead the global fight against cancer. Another clear EU-level responsibility is to invest in people’s health and to encourage medical research and innovation. In particular, the EPP Group wants to strengthen clinical trials, make better use of health data and support the development of innovative cancer treatments," Arłukowicz continued. 

The European Parliament insists that €10.05 billion is earmarked for EU4Health priorities under the EU's next long-term budget, including at least €2.5 billion dedicated specifically to cancer-related actions. 

"Beating cancer has been a core EPP Group priority since 2019, paving the way for the EU’s first-ever Beating Cancer Plan in 2021. We will continue to push for greater ambition in the Union’s approach to cancer prevention, treatment and care in cooperation with the 27 Member States," Arłukowicz concluded.