The Commission, in line with the Parliament’s Special Committee on Beating Cancer report[1], recognises the importance of nutritional support in cancer care.

The review of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan[2] updated on its implementation. Based on stakeholder consultations, it concluded that the current Cancer Plan remains relevant, with the focus on continuing to implement ongoing actions. As the review was just published in February 2025, the Commission is not currently planning an additional review.

Through the EU funded project INTERACT-EUROPE 100[3], training to ensure diagnosis of malnutrition risks and personalised nutrition interventions is provided to health professionals.

This inter-specialty training programme is being implemented in 100 cancer centres across the EU. A dedicated course covers nutritional aspects in cancer, including its impact on treatment outcomes, nutritional screening, interventions, and nutrition in palliative and end-of-life care.

Furthermore, the European Quality Assurance Scheme for Breast Cancer Services, developed by the Commission’s Joint Research Centre, supports quality improvement across the entire care pathway.

The scheme recommends that breast cancer services offer nutrition counselling. To be certified according to the scheme, services need to have protocols in place covering nutrition and physical activity programmes.

The Commission also recognises the importance of nutritional care in cancer survivors. The Joint Action JANE[4] is creating seven cancer-related Networks of Expertise.

In particular, the Survivorship Network intends to create a framework to follow-up care, prioritising the prevention and management of adverse effects, with an emphasis on nutrition and diet.

Last updated: 2 July 2025