During the European Week Against Cancer, the European Cancer Organisation launched the 2026 European Cancer Screening Policy Index. The updated Index evaluates cancer screening policies and performance across Europe using improved methods and recent national data.

The report shows that significant inequalities in cancer screening still exist between countries. Although many nations have expanded screening programmes since 2024, participation rates and equal access remain major challenges.

The Index stresses the importance of organised screening programmes and stronger European cooperation, especially for lung, prostate, and gastric cancer detection.