Lung Cancer Europe position on Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan report
A POSITION STATEMENT | NOVEMBER 2026
The European Parliament is voting on its report on the implementation of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, which sets out Parliament’s priorities for EU action on cancer, from prevention to quality of life. Amendments tabled on 4 November 2026 would weaken several of the report’s prevention commitments, including on tobacco, alcohol and nutrition.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Europe, and tobacco is its leading cause. The Plan’s goal of a Tobacco-Free Generation by 2040 is central to reducing the number of people diagnosed in the future.
This position statement sets out what the amendments would change, what this means for people affected by lung cancer and what we are asking Members of the European Parliament to do ahead of the vote on 12 November. It builds on our position on the EU’s 2028–2034 budget, where we called for Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan to be backed with the resources needed to deliver it.
Key Points
Our position
Keep the 2040 Tobacco-Free Generation goal and a timely revision of EU tobacco legislation, including plain packaging and protection from second-hand smoke and aerosols.
Keep clear language on alcohol-related harm and transparent consumer information.
Recognise the importance of healthy, evidence-based diets, and keep the call for harmonised front-of-pack nutrition labelling.
Keep science-based action on PFAS, support healthy school meals and support a voluntary, secure Cancer Survivor Smart Card.
