The European cancer landscape: A focused review of epidemiology, prevention, inequalities and innovation

This review provides a focused overview of the current cancer landscape in Europe, addressing epidemiological trends, cancer-related costs, prevention and early detection, inequalities in access to care, and the implementation of therapeutic innovation. Recent studies from major European institutions were selected to illustrate key developments. Cancer incidence, mortality, direct and indirect costs vary substantially across countries, although comparisons remain limited by differences in geographical areas included, data collection, registration systems, and methodological approaches. The available evidence highlights the need for more standardized cancer data, greater investment in prevention, equitable implementation of screening programmes, broader access to multidisciplinary care, advanced diagnostic tools, clinical trials, and precision oncology. European funding programmes and collaborative networks may contribute to these objectives by promoting shared research infrastructures and cooperation.