Europa Donna at the 2nd European Cancer Mission Fair
The 2nd EU Cancer Mission Fair, held in Nicosia, Cyprus, brought together patients, advocates, researchers and policymakers from across Europe for a dynamic day of exchange, collaboration and inspiration. Organised under the ECHoS (Establishing Cancer Mission Hubs: Networks and Synergies) project in partnership with the European Commission’s EU Cancer Mission, the event focused on strengthening citizen engagement and fostering more inclusive, patient-centred approaches to cancer care and research at a national level.
The day opened with a high-level welcome session that set the tone for meaningful dialogue between institutions and the cancer community. A highlight was the address by Stella Kyriakides, former European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety and past President of Europa Donna. In her speech, she emphasised the need to continue driving forward collaborative, patient-focused policies that ensure equitable access to care across all Member States. Stella said, “Our responsibility, your responsibility, all of us together must ensure that every single person facing cancer in Europe has the best possible chance not only to survive but to live well.” Her longstanding commitment to patient advocacy resonated strongly and underscored the central role of civil society in shaping the future of cancer care.
Throughout the day, sessions explored a wide range of topics, from youth-driven initiatives in cancer care to citizen science and innovative models for patient engagement. Discussions highlighted the importance of embedding lived experience into research and policy, particularly for adolescents and young adults, and showcased practical examples of co-creation in healthcare systems.
Europa Donna was prominently represented during the afternoon pitch session on patient and citizen engagement. Stella Mastora, President of Europa Donna, together with Board Member Dominika Kormanova, delivered a compelling presentation on improving cancer screening uptake. Their contribution, “Bridging the Gap: From Available Screening to Used Screening,” focused on the persistent inequalities between access to screening and actual participation, offering insights into how patient advocacy and community engagement can help close this gap.
The Fair concluded with reflections on how co-design and multi-stakeholder collaboration, bringing together patients, healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers and industry can drive meaningful system change. The event reinforced the value of shared experiences and collective action in advancing Europe’s cancer agenda, leaving participants with renewed motivation to continue working together toward more equitable and patient-centred cancer care.
