Poland was the focus at the Inaugural Cancer Mission Fair

From 20-22 May, Warsaw hosted the first Cancer Mission Fair, an unprecedented event bringing together citizens, policymakers, researchers and innovators committed to improving cancer care and research across Europe. Organised by the ECHoS project with support from the European Commission and the European Cancer Organisation (ECO), this three-day gathering marked a key milestone in the implementation of the EU Cancer Mission.

Entitled Launch, Engage, Synergise!, this event galvanised collaboration, public engagement, and innovation in cancer policy. It included:

• The launch of the first National Cancer Mission Hub (NCMH) in Europe
• Interactive sessions, workshops and networking opportunities
• Participation from national and EU stakeholders, including patients and civil society organisations

As part of its pan-European Time to Accelerate campaign and the European Cancer Roadmap, ECO co-hosted a high-level session on 21 May (11:00–12:30) alongside the Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology (NIO).

Entitled ‘Together Against Cancer: Poland’, this session:

• Highlighted Poland’s cancer policy achievements and remaining challenges
• Featured input from key national decision-makers and experts
• Explored synergy between national priorities and EU cancer initiatives

The session also marked the official launch of the new Polish Country Report from the European Cancer Pulse  The document provides a comprehensive review of the country’s cancer landscape, spotlighting progress and areas for improvement in prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship. It serves as a valuable benchmark for future policy actions.

The Cancer Mission Fair and the release of the Poland Country Report provide a unique opportunity to align efforts across stakeholders and strengthen the implementation of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan at national and European levels.