[4 February 2025] – On this World Cancer Day, the South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) reaffirms its commitment to supporting cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and support services across the region.
SEEHN strongly endorses the new global theme, “United by Unique” (2025-2027), as it highlights the power of individual stories and the importance of personalized, people-centered cancer care.
Cancer remains a significant public health challenge in South-Eastern Europe, where disparities in access to timely diagnosis and high-quality treatment persist. Greater efforts are needed across the region and beyond to close the care gap and ensure equitable access to life-saving cancer care, particularly by:
- Expanding early detection and screening initiatives, especially in underserved communities.
- Improving cancer care infrastructure to guarantee access to advanced treatments and supportive services.
- Strengthening the cancer workforce by equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and resources for high-quality, patient-centered care.
- Promoting cancer prevention strategies, including tobacco control measures, vaccination programs, and public awareness campaigns.
SEEHN remains committed to actively collaborating with national health authorities, regional stakeholders, and international partners to reduce the cancer burden and improve survival rates across the region.
At the same time, real progress comes from listening to and empowering patients, ensuring that their voices shape the policies and services designed to support them. As part of World Cancer Day 2025, SEEHN encourages governments, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, and communities to unite in a collective effort to make cancer care more inclusive, personalized, and effective.
