Cancer inequalities in Europe are not abstract policy challenges — they are lived realities. Patients across European regions face significant disparities in access to prevention, early diagnosis, innovative treatments, and survivorship support, often depending solely on where they live. As Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan moves from commitment to implementation, the question is no longer whether action is needed, but how regional governance can be held accountable for delivering equitable care.
Hosted by the European Committee of the Regions, this institutional event opens Cancer Patients Europe’s Annual Meeting 2026 by placing patient voices at the heart of political dialogue. Patient leaders from across Europe will share their experiences directly with regional and EU policymakers, challenging institutions to respond to persistent disparities and align governance frameworks with the realities on the ground.
The session will explore how EU and regional instruments can better address territorial gaps in cancer care, and how patient testimony can drive greater accountability. Bringing together members of the Committee of the Regions, Members of the European Parliament, and cancer patient organisations, the event aims to strengthen the connection between territorial responsibility, patient insight, and EU coordination in support of a more equitable cancer care model across Europe.
Venue
European Committee of the Regions (CoR)
Conference room JDE 51
5th floor of JDE-Bâtiment Jacques Delors
Rue Belliard 101, B-1040, Brussels