Cancer inequalities across Europe remain a daily reality for patients, with access to prevention, early diagnosis, innovative treatments and survivorship support still depending too often on where people live. This was the central message of an institutional event hosted by the European Committee of the Regions, opening Cancer Patients Europe’s Annual Meeting 2026.
The event brought together members of the European Committee of the Regions, Members of the European Parliament, regional representatives and cancer patient organisations to discuss how Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan can be implemented more effectively on the ground. Patient leaders from across Europe shared their experiences directly with policymakers, underlining the need for stronger accountability, better coordination and more equitable access to care across all regions.
Speaking at the event, Birgitta Sacredeus, member of the County Council of Dalarna, stressed that Europe’s cancer policy must be translated into practical action at regional level, where prevention, diagnosis, treatment and patient support are often delivered.
“Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan has given us essential knowledge, but knowledge must now become action in every region. Prevention works: vaccination, action against smoking, awareness of alcohol-related risks and environmental health measures can save lives. At the same time, we must close the unacceptable gaps in access to healthcare workers, modern equipment and precise diagnosis. No patient’s chances should depend on where they live. Regions have a crucial responsibility to implement what we know, support patients and relatives, and ensure that better cancer care reaches people in practice,” said Birgitta Sacredeus.
Sacredeus recalled her work on an opinion on Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan in the European Committee of the Regions, which allowed her to engage directly with cancer organisations and experts. She underlined that cancer is one of Europe’s major health challenges, particularly as populations age, but also one where prevention can make a decisive difference.
She pointed to the progress achieved through vaccination against cancers linked to HPV, as well as public health measures on smoking and alcohol, as examples of how political decisions and preventive action can deliver long-term health benefits. She also highlighted the importance of environmental factors in cancer prevention and the need to bring health considerations into broader policy discussions.
At the same time, Sacredeus warned that Europe continues to face deep territorial disparities in cancer care. Some regions, particularly in parts of eastern Europe, continue to experience medical deserts, shortages of healthcare workers and limited access to modern diagnostic and treatment equipment. She noted that even within countries such as Sweden, regional differences have required targeted action, including the creation of competence centres to share knowledge and strengthen cancer care pathways.
“Regions are at the heart of implementation,” Sacredeus said. “They are responsible for turning European ambitions into better diagnosis, better treatment and better support for patients and families.”
The discussion also highlighted the importance of survivorship care. Sacredeus emphasised that support must not end when a patient is declared cancer-free. Recovery, rehabilitation, mental health, family support and the role of relatives must be recognised as part of a comprehensive cancer care model.
The event concluded with a clear call to strengthen the link between EU coordination, regional responsibility and patient insight. As Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan moves from commitment to implementation, regional and local authorities will be essential to ensuring that equitable cancer care becomes a reality for patients in every part of Europe.