The European cardiovascular and cancer health communities have issued a joint appeal to EU Heads of State and Government, urging them to prioritize sustained investment in healthcare ahead of the European Council Summit on 23–24 April 2026. The statement, supported by the European Alliance on Cardiovascular Health and the European Cancer Organisation, emphasizes the need to protect and strengthen health funding within the EU’s upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034.
Cardiovascular diseases and cancer remain the leading causes of illness and death in the European Union, accounting for around nine million diagnoses and nearly three million deaths each year. Beyond the human impact, these conditions impose an estimated annual economic burden of nearly €500 billion, driven by healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and increased pressure on social systems.
Health advocates stress that public concern over healthcare is high, with EU citizens consistently ranking it as a top priority for EU budget allocation. Despite this, health is not yet treated as a central political focus at the level required. The statement urges EU leaders to convert public and parliamentary support into concrete funding commitments and long-term policy action.
The appeal also highlights that strengthening investment in cardiovascular and cancer care is essential for Europe’s resilience, competitiveness, and preparedness for future crises. It argues that these two disease areas represent the highest burden on health systems and require urgent attention to ensure stability in the face of geopolitical and economic pressures.
The joint statement calls for health to remain a standalone priority with dedicated and protected funding, stronger visibility within the European Competitiveness Fund, and full implementation of major EU health initiatives such as the Safe Hearts Plan and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan under the next EU budget cycle. It also emphasizes the importance of recognising health as a driver of innovation in sectors like life sciences, medical technology, and digital health, while reinforcing health system resilience and crisis readiness.
Health leaders underline that cardiovascular health forms the foundation of population wellbeing and economic stability, while sustained investment in research and care can reduce long-term costs and improve productivity. Similarly, cancer experts warn that without continued political commitment, progress in treatment and outcomes could be at risk, stressing that stronger health systems are essential not only for saving lives but also for securing Europe’s future.
