On eve of World Cancer Day, Wednesday 4 February, European Commission unveils update to European Code Against Cancer.
The revised code (https://aeur.eu/f/kka ) sets out practical ways of helping to prevent the disease, and is the result of four years’ work by over 60 European experts. The recommendations are based on scientific data and are adapted to the EU population and healthcare systems.
The revised code places a strong emphasis on lifestyle choices and public health measures to reduce the risk of cancer. It covers topics such as vaccination, cancer screening, breastfeeding, alcohol consumption, ultra-processed foods and air pollution, among others. The updated code was drawn up by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) on behalf of the Commission.
Cancer is a major public health challenge in the EU, with an estimated 2.7 million new cases and 1.3 million cancer-related deaths in 2024. Cancer also has considerable economic consequences, estimated at €100 billion a year in Europe.
World Cancer Day 2026 also marks the fifth anniversary of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, which has had a significant positive impact across Europe: more than €2.7 billion has been invested in actions to improve prevention, early detection, treatment and care (see other news). (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)