Stakeholder Dialogue Event at the European Parliament
On January 15, 2025, PANCAID hosted a pivotal Stakeholder Dialogue Event at the European Parliament in Brussels, bringing together policymakers, researchers, patient advocates, and healthcare professionals. This high-level discussion focused on one of the most pressing challenges in cancer care: the urgent need for improved early detection of pancreatic cancer.
Why This Event Was Crucial
Pancreatic cancer is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Europe, yet it remains one of the most underfunded cancer types. As a result, advancements in early detection and treatment continue to lag behind other cancers. This event underscored the critical need for greater funding, stronger political action, and collaborative efforts to improve early detection and survival rates.
Key Topics Discussed
Throughout the event, distinguished speakers and patient advocates addressed:
- The need for early detection tools, including cutting-edge technologies like liquid biopsy.
- The funding gap in pancreatic cancer research and the necessity for increased political commitment.
- Patient perspectives, with powerful testimonies on the devastating impact of late-stage diagnoses.
- Collaboration across Europe, emphasizing the role of research networks and advocacy groups in driving progress.
Event Highlights & Agenda
- Welcome & Opening Remarks
Nicolás González Casares, Member of the European Parliament
Jo Etienne Abela, Minister of Health and Active Aging, Malta
- Introduction to the PANCAID Project by Klaus Pantel, PANCAID Coordinator – The Vision for PANCAID (download the presentation here)
- The support of the European Commission – HADEA by Ioannis Vouldis, European Commission (HaDEA) – EU Funding & Support (download the presentation here)
- Patient Stories
Ali Stunt, Pancreatic Cancer Survivor, Pancreatic Cancer Action UK (download the presentation here)
Patrycja Rzadkowska, Pancreatic Cancer Survivor, EuropaColon Poland
Cristina Sandín, President of ACANPAN
- Roundtable Discussion: Joint Efforts on Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer
Ana Martins, Digestive Cancers Europe (DiCE)
Patrick Michl, United European Gastroenterology (UEG)
MEP Ondřej Dostál
Minister Jo Etienne Abela
Alfredo Carrato, Pancreatic Cancer Europe (PCE)
- Networking among research groups on Pancreatic Cancer by Núria Malats, CNIO & PCE (download the presentation here)
- Closing Remarks: Matthias Löhr & Klaus Pantel
Next Steps: PANCAID’s Commitment to Action
To ensure that this dialogue leads to real impact, PANCAID will publish an outcomes paper, summarizing key takeaways and recommendations for advancing early detection, funding, and collaboration. This document will serve as a resource for policymakers, researchers, and advocates working to change the trajectory of pancreatic cancer care.
Watch the Full Event Recording
The full recording is now available online. Watch the discussions, hear from leading experts, and join the movement for early detection.
This event was organized by Pancreatic Cancer Europe (PCE) and supported by United European Gastroenterology (UEG).
Together, we can change the future of pancreatic cancer detection.
Download the presentations here: