With the number of cancers and cancer-related deaths across the EU rising at an alarming rate, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) calls for much-needed cancer prevention measures, as about 40% of cancer cases are deemed preventable. 

At its plenary session in May, the EESC adopted an opinion welcoming the European Commission's proposal for a Council Recommendation on vaccine-preventable cancers as a follow-up initiative to the EU's Beating Cancer Plan (the 'Cancer Plan'). 

The opinion focuses on vaccination against human papillomaviruses (HPV) and hepatitis B (HBV), as vaccination could prevent several kinds of cancers caused by these viruses. 

The EESC emphasises the need for proper information, education and communication that encourages target groups to be vaccinated. It also highlights the important role that general practitioners, family doctors, school physicians and civil society organisations play in this endeavour. 

Milena Angelova, rapporteur for the opinion on Vaccine preventable cancers said: 'We must fight stigma and false beliefs around vaccines. For example, there is this erroneous belief that vaccinations are only for young girls. However, that is not the case. In order to eradicate these viruses (HPV, HBV), we also have to engage with boys and their parents'. Vaccines must be accessible to all. 

It is extremely important 'to reverse the trend of scepticism', added co-rapporteur Sára Felszeghi. Fighting misinformation and disinformation is a key part of encouraging people to be vaccinated. 

The EESC calls for a comprehensive approach to beating cancer, with a well-functioning and integrated system for all forms of prevention, including primary prevention (vaccination, healthy lifestyle), secondary prevention (screening) and tertiary prevention (care and rehabilitation). 

Ms Angelova reaffirmed 'the need for Member States to coordinate more and to exchange best practices' in order to be much more efficient in the fight against cancer and to increase vaccination coverage across the EU. It is of utmost importance that cancer prevention be seen as a political priority. (sg)