In an effort to confront one of the most pressing health challenges of our time, the European Union has launched an ambitious initiative known as the EU Cancer Mission. This critical component of the Horizon Europe research and innovation programme (2021-2027) aims to significantly improve the lives of millions by 2030, tackling cancer through a multi-faceted approach that encompasses research, innovation, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement.
Understanding the cancer challenge
Cancer is not a singular disease but a collection of complex illnesses characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. With over 100 different types of cancer, the disease can manifest almost anywhere in the body, leading to a diverse range of health issues.
Each year, 2.7 million people are diagnosed with cancer, and 1.3 million lives are lost to the disease in Europe alone. These numbers are projected to rise, with new cases potentially reaching over 3.24 million by 2040 if current trends continue. Cancer's multifaceted nature demands a comprehensive strategy that not only targets treatment but also focuses on prevention, early detection, and survival.
EU cancer mission is a fight on multiple fronts
The EU cancer mission is a beacon of hope in the fight against cancer, aiming to deliver real change in EU.
- Understanding of cancer: Supporting research that focuses on the molecular mechanisms and risk factors of cancer to develop innovative treatments and preventive strategies.
- Prevention and early detection: Implementing measures to reduce cancer risk factors and promoting early detection to improve survival rates.
- Diagnosis and treatment: Enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses and the effectiveness of treatments through cutting-edge research and technology.
- Quality of life: Ensuring that cancer patients and their families maintain a high quality of life during and after treatment, addressing the physical, emotional and social challenges associated with the disease.
The mission's goals are not just optimistic but backed by substantial investment and a commitment to collaboration across member states, stakeholders and citizens. It is designed to work in tandem with Europe's “Beating Cancer Plan”, a comprehensive strategy that supports efforts to provide a better understanding of cancer, allow for earlier diagnosis, optimize treatment and improve patients' quality of life.
EU funding for cancer mission
An extensive portfolio of projects already benefits from EU funding, with over 4B€ allocated to cancer research and innovation under past and current framework programmes. The mission also supports collaboration between projects, as seen in the 46 projects working together in clusters to maximize impact. This year, 2024 119M€ have been allocated for 6 call topics covering all main objectives of cancer mission working towards the goal of preventing and effective management of cancer.
Open calls for proposals
- Use cases for the UNCAN.eu research data platform (30M€) RIA call
- Support dialogue towards the development of national cancer data nodes (3M€) Coordinated supportive actions (CSA)
- Accessible and affordable tests to advance early detection of heritable cancers in European regions (10-12M€) Innovation Action (IA)
- Support a pragmatic clinical trial programme by cancer charities (3M€) CSA
- Improving the understanding and management of late-effects in adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer (4-6M€), RIA call
- An information portal for the European Cancer Patient Digital Centre (ECPDC) 12M€ Innovation action (IA) call.
How Spinverse can help
Spinverse, as a seasoned innovation consultancy specializing in innovation and technology, stands ready to assist organizations in navigating the complexities of project preparation and application processes for the EU Cancer Mission. Spinverse's domain-specific expertise can be instrumental for applicants aiming to secure funding and successfully manage their projects. Spinverse can provide invaluable support in various aspects:
Proposal preparation: Spinverse can offer guidance on how to draft a compelling proposal that meets the stringent requirements of EU funding calls, including addressing all evaluation criteria effectively.
Consortium building: Given the collaborative nature of EU projects, Spinverse can help in identifying and engaging suitable partners across Europe to form a strong consortium.
Innovation and commercialization: Spinverse can advise on how to leverage project results, ensuring that innovative ideas are brought to market and lead to sustainable solutions in the fight against cancer.
Project services: Spinverse works with publicly funded projects to achieve a specific set of goals in the given timeline. These goals are based on technical innovations and create positive business and environmental and societal impact for Europe. The projects we work with range from an individual customer or a few partners collaborating together towards their goal, up to large consortium projects with tens of partners from all across Europe. We aim to provide comprehensive support for complex, multi-partner projects by offering a tailored suite of services so customers can focus on their main project objectives.
Get in touch with our experts!
The EU Cancer Mission represents a united and comprehensive approach to combatting cancer, with the Horizon Europe programme fostering an environment where innovation can thrive. As organizations and researchers rally to contribute to this cause, innovation consultancies such as Spinverse can play an essential role in streamlining the path to funding and project success. Through expert assistance in project preparation, consortium building and project management, Spinverse can help turn the tide in the battle against cancer, contributing to a healthier future for all Europeans
Take the first step towards securing your EU funding: Reach out to Spinverse today and let us help you unlock the potential of your project!
Rohit Sood, Director and Team Leader for Health Tech, Ph.D. (Chem), MBA
rohit.sood@spinverse.com
+358 50 530 2863 (Finland)
Dr. Jayden Khakurel, Digital Health & Data Leader
jayden.khakurel@spinverse.com.
tel:+358 50 478 3637 (Finland)
Tina Verolin, Senior Consultant, Health
tina.verolin@spinverse.com
+46 73 509 7087 (Sweden)