In the wake of World Cancer Day, celebrated on 4 February, we are reminded of the 10 million patients who lose their lives to cancer each year. It is encouraging to see the European Commission’s review of the Beating Cancer Plan (BCP) and their willingness to assess whether additional measures are necessary to achieve its objectives.
ESMO commends the significant progress made, particularly in reducing occupational risk factors, such as exposure limits for asbestos, and addressing environmental risks like air pollution. However, the lack of progress in tackling lifestyle factors, such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, is unacceptable given the substantial evidence linking them to increased cancer risks.
As the Society representing medical oncologists, ESMO concurs with the review’s assessment that the BCP’s ‘actions are long-term in nature’ and that ‘some may take years to reach maturity and show their full effects.’ This, however, will only be achieved if policymakers leverage the frontline expertise of medical oncologists.
ESMO therefore reiterates its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to maximize the BCP’s potential and reduce the devastating impact of cancer on the lives of millions of Europeans.