22 May 2025, Brussels
Today, the MEPs Against Cancer (MAC) Interest Group celebrates two decades of shaping Europe’s fight against cancer, in an event held at the European Parliament in Brussels. Since its founding in 2005, MAC has played a key role in keeping cancer a top health priority on the EU’s political agenda, positively impacting the lives of millions across Europe.
As the longest-standing group of MEPs dedicated to addressing the entire cancer continuum – from prevention and treatment to survivorship – the MEPs Against Cancer group brings together policymakers from across the political spectrum and EU member states to promote ambitious EU action against cancer. The group is supported by the Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL), which unites 34 national and regional cancer leagues across Europe.
Over the past two decades, MEPs Against Cancer have played a pivotal role in elevating cancer to the top of the EU health policy agenda. Key achievements include supporting the development of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, advocating for the creation of the European Parliament’s Special Committee on Beating Cancer (BECA), and backing the adoption of the 2022 European Parliament Resolution to Beat Cancer, which charted a clear course for improved prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care across the EU.
“The impact of MEPs Against Cancer is evident. Through tireless advocacy, this group helped shape Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, secured strong language on cancer in the EU4Health programme and worked to ensure funding for the EU Cancer Mission. We have pushed for harmonised training of health professionals, equitable access to innovation and recognition of the psycho-social needs of patients and survivors. But our fight is far from over,” said MEP Romana Jerković, Chair of MEPs Against Cancer.
Despite this progress, cancer remains one of Europe’s greatest health threats. It is already the leading cause of death in several countries, including Spain, Belgium, Denmark, France, and the Netherlands. More broadly, cancer is projected to become the leading cause of death in the EU by 2035, with lives lost expected to rise by over 24%. At the same time, social-economic inequalities in cancer mortality continue to exist in Europe, with people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds disproportionately facing higher mortality rates from numerous types of cancer.
“The timely and full implementation of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan is more crucial than ever. Measures like revising tobacco laws, introducing alcohol labelling, and regulating unhealthy food marketing to children can help lower Europe’s cancer burden. At the same time, it is urgent to tackle the growing inequalities in cancer care, especially in the workplace and access to innovation. We look forward to working closely with the European Parliament and other institutions to make this a reality,” said Ramon Reyes, President of the Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL).
As it enters its third decade, MEPs Against Cancer remain committed to reducing cancer inequalities and ensuring every person living in Europe has access to the highest standard of cancer prevention, treatment, and care.
Notes to editor
For further information, please contact Ivonne Leenen, Communications Officer at the Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL): ivonne@cancer.eu
The Association of European Cancer Leagues (ECL) is a non-profit, pan-European umbrella organisation of national and regional cancer societies. ECL provides an exclusive platform for members to collaborate with their international peers, primarily in the areas of cancer prevention, access to medicines and patient support, and creates opportunities to advocate for these issues at the EU level. Transparency registry no: 19265592757-25