According to most recently published data, there were an estimated 1.4 million new cases of cancer in men and 1.4 million in women in the EU in 2012. In the same year, approximately 707 000 men and 555 000 women died from cancer. Although significant advances are being made in the fight against the disease, cancer remains a key public health concern and a tremendous burden on European societies. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the European Union – a figure that is expected to rise due to the ageing European population.  

Where does the EU come into the picture? The EU has a 29 year history in the fight against cancer.

The “European code against Cancer” realized on 1987 aimed to arm citizens with key information through its 11 recommendations:

·         Do not smoke

·         Avoid obesity

·         Undertake some brisk, physical activity every day

·         Increase your daily intake and variety of vegetables and fruits

·         Moderate your daily consumption of alcohol

·         Avoid excessive sun exposure

·         Avoid exposure to known cancer-causing substances

·         Women from 25 years of age should participate in cervical screening

·         Women form 50 years of age should participate in breast screening

·         Men and women form 50 years of age should participate in colorectal screening

All should participate in vaccination programmes against Hepatitis B virus

The European Code against Cancer is currently being revised by the Commission and the International Agency for Research on Cancer, based on the latest scientific evidence and the fourth edition of the Code is expected to be published during 2014.