(Brussels) World Cancer Day 2026 marks the 5th anniversary of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, “which has had a significant positive impact across Europe”. Under the plan, the European Commission informed, “more than €2.7 billion has been invested in actions to improve prevention, early detection, treatment and care across Europe, as well as to improve the quality of life for cancer patients”. The Commission now works with 630 organizations under the Cancer Plan. “World Cancer Day is a moment to reiterate our firm commitment to tackling this devastating disease and supporting those affected by it”, said Olivér Várhelyi, EU Commissioner for Health. “Unlocking the Cancer Plan’s full potential will lead to strengthened prevention, early detection and better access to treatment regardless of geography or income. It also means strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy in the healthcare sector, accelerating research, supporting innovation and boosting investment. We have taken important steps in this direction and the path ahead is clear: we must keep working to better protect our citizens, through prevention, robust and streamlined health policies in the EU”.