In this interview, we are joined by President-Elect of the European Cancer Organisation (ECO), Dr Isabel Teresa Rubio (Head of Breast Surgical Oncology at Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Professor of Surgery at the University of Navarra, Spain). She discusses the latest policy action paper from the European Cancer Organisation, which presents recommendations for change based on the challenges that women face in the cancer community throughout Europe. Published during European Gender Equality Week, the paper highlights the unique challenges women face as cancer patients, caregivers and professionals in the oncology field. It also outlines strategies to address disparities in prevention, treatment and survivorship, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life for women across Europe.
Dr. Rubio shares her insights into the rationale behind the paper, its key take-away messages and the broader initiatives spearheaded by ECO, emphasizing the importance of sustained advocacy and collaboration in tackling gender disparities in cancer care.
Q1. Please summarize the rationale behind publishing the new policy action paper and some of the challenges that women face in the cancer community
The motivation behind this document stems from the pressing reality that approximately 12 million women in Europe are living with cancer today. It was time to thoroughly address the needs and challenges specific to women in the cancer community. The document is structured around four key areas: women living with cancer, women who are caregivers, women working in oncology and women in research and leadership roles.
Each of these aspects presents unique challenges. For instance, women as caregivers often face economic and social disadvantages, while women in healthcare and research still encounter gender disparities in opportunities and pay. By shedding light on these issues, we aim to identify actionable solutions to reduce disparities, enhance the quality of life for women and drive systemic change across these domains.
Q2. What are the main takeaways from the paper?
The paper emphasizes four primary areas of focus: access to cancer prevention and treatment, addressing preventable cancers, improving early detection and tackling lifestyle-related risk factors, such as smoking.
Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality among women in Europe, yet many cancers are preventable or treatable if detected early. For example, initiatives like HPV vaccination and population-wide cervical cancer prevention programs are critical. Similarly, breast cancer screening programs, although widely implemented, show significant disparities in uptake, particularly in certain Eastern European countries. Raising awareness about the importance of screening and ensuring equitable access are vital steps to bridge these gaps.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking also play a major role in cancer incidence. With smoking as a leading cause of lung cancer, public health campaigns targeting cessation can significantly reduce mortality rates. The report underscores the urgency of addressing these inequalities and taking concerted action to minimize preventable cancer deaths across all member states.
Q3. Please outline the current aims and initiatives of the European Cancer Organisation’s Inequalities Network, and provide some further information on the Women & Cancer Workstream
ECO has been actively gathering data on inequalities throughout the cancer care journey, from prevention and screening to treatment and survivorship. One notable achievement of the Inequalities Network is the development of the European Cancer Pulse, which highlights disparities in access to care, treatment outcomes and quality of life across Europe. This data-driven approach is essential to understand the extent of inequities and to advocate for meaningful policy changes.
The Women & Cancer Workstream, launched as part of the Inequalities Network, focuses on the specific challenges faced by women, including gender disparities in screening and treatment access, as well as the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles within oncology. The Network also examines broader underserved populations to ensure a more inclusive approach to tackling inequalities. The ultimate goal is to implement key recommendations from the European Cancer Plan while continuing to build awareness and policy momentum.
Q4. Please summarize some of the main projects and initiatives that the European Cancer Organisation is focusing on in 2025
In 2025, the European Cancer Organisation is prioritizing projects that span the entire cancer care pathway. This includes accelerating the implementation of the European Beating Cancer Campaign, particularly in areas such as screening, prevention and ensuring high-quality care through comprehensive cancer centres.
ECO is also focused on survivorship and quality of life. For example, coordinating EU funded projects such as smartCARE, a cancer survivor smartcard that monitors the quality of life for cancer patients throughout their treatment journey, and will help to improve health and well being of cancer survivors. Additionally, the society are advancing innovative screening programs for cancers like lung, prostate and gastric, supported by European-funded initiatives.
With the European Beating Cancer Campaign set to conclude by 2027, ECO is advocating for sustained investment in cancer care. Maintaining cancer as a priority in European policymaking is crucial to ensure continued progress. ECO’s efforts aim to solidify cancer care as an ongoing priority, not just a temporary focus during the lifespan of the Plan.
This interview was facilitated by the European Cancer Organisation. No funding or fees were associated with the production of this video.
Disclosures: Isabel Teresa Rubio has no financial or non-financial conflicts of interest to declare in relation to this article.
Cite: Rubio IT. 12 million reasons for action: Transforming cancer care for women. touchONCOLOGY. 23 January, 2025.
