Securing a healthier future: Why EU funding matters for bladder cancer patients

We recently attended the event ‘Unlocking Europe’s Future: Prioritising Health under the Next Multiannual Financial Framework’, organised by the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance and hosted at the European Parliament. The event brought together civil society organisations, policymakers, and healthcare advocates to discuss the role of EU funding in building healthier, more equitable societies. 

While many important health topics were covered, several points stood out as especially relevant for the bladder cancer community. 

The MFF sets out long-term EU spending priorities, and it will play a key role in how much support is given to cancer care, research, prevention, and patient services. We heard a clear message from the discussions: continued EU investment in healthcare systems, cross-border collaboration, and patient-centred research is essential, especially for conditions like bladder cancer, which still receive limited visibility. 

A recurring theme throughout the event was the importance of involving patients in shaping policies that directly affect them. For the bladder cancer community, this means being part of the conversation around funding for early detection programmes, research into new treatments, and improving access to care across Europe. 

Another important issue raised was the need for stronger European health data systems. Better data can help improve diagnosis, support personalised treatment options, and drive more targeted research, all of which could benefit people living with bladder cancer. 

We also heard about the major impact prevention can have.

This reinforces the urgent need for EU-backed initiatives that focus on known causes of bladder cancer, including smoking and chemical exposure.

Early detection also remains a critical priority. When caught early, bladder cancer is highly treatable, and patients have much better chances of positive outcomes. That is why we are calling for dedicated MFF funding to support early diagnosis across all EU Member States. 

Finally, the issue of inequality in care came up again and again. Right now, there are major gaps across Europe in how quickly bladder cancer is diagnosed and what treatment options are available. Everyone deserves the same quality of care, no matter where they live. The next MFF must help close these gaps. 

As EU institutions finalise their financial priorities, it is essential that the bladder cancer patient voice is heard. Working together with policymakers, healthcare professionals, and other organisations, we can make sure that funding goes where it is most needed, towards prevention, research, and support for patients. 

With the right investment, the future for people affected by bladder cancer can be brighter, fairer, and healthier. 

We also invite you to explore our Bladder Cancer Risk Factors Factsheet, a valuable resource outlining key prevention measures and risk factors associated with bladder cancer.