Press Release: European Week Against Cancer: A joint commitment to prevent cancer

Every year nearly 2.5 million EU citizens are diagnosed with cancer, which is also the second most common cause of death in Europe (29% of deaths for men, 23% for women). This figure is expected to rise due to the ageing European population. However, it is estimated that around one third of cancers could be prevented if people made healthier choices (or if people adopted healthier living habits).

2011's European Week Against Cancer, which has been re-launched under the leadership of the Association of European Cancer Leagues as one of the activities of the European Partnership for Action Against Cancer, will focus on healthy living. As a keynote speaker at the launch event in Brussels, John Dalli, European Commissioner for Health & Consumer Policy, will encourage participants to promote cancer prevention through their organisations and institutions at national, regional and local levels.