National Cancer Control Programmes in Europe in 2024: State of Play and Alignment with the European Guide for Quality NCCPs.

Abstract

Introduction: National Cancer Control Programmes (NCCPs) are essential policy documents guiding national cancer control planning. Their existence and quality are crucial for reducing cancer incidence, morbidity, and mortality, and for improving the quality of life of people with cancer and the population. The main aim of the present research, conducted within OriON Joint Action (2024-2025), was to explore and analyse the state of play, type, duration, evaluation, and quality of NCCPs across the European Union (EU) and selected countries, with a focus on the inclusion of key elements outlined in the European Guide for Quality NCCPs (Guide).

Methods: A structured survey was prepared, validated, and carried out in 2024 across 34 countries, including EU Member States, Iceland, Montenegro, Norway, Turkey, and Ukraine. The results were analysed and presented in tables and figures. Descriptive analysis using frequencies and percentages was conducted.

Results: The response rate was 100%. Of the 34 participating countries, 31 reported having an NCCP or equivalent cancer control document in 2024. Most countries had 1 comprehensive document, while 9 prepared multiple documents. The majority were defined as programmes and/or strategies, followed by plans and policies. In terms of quality, as recommended by the Guide, only 6 countries fully incorporated all suggested elements into their NCCPs.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate that most European countries recognise the significant challenge posed by cancer as a major public health problem and have developed NCCPs or equivalent cancer control documents. However, in terms of quality, there remains considerable room for improvement.