The country is adhering to the international celebration of this date, promoted by the Epidemiology Department of the National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), in collaboration with the University of Aveiro and SHINE 2Europe. The national commemoration will take place on September 25, 2026, coinciding with the European Researchers' Night.
The primary objective is to highlight the importance of cancer literacy as an essential tool for citizens to make informed health decisions. The aim is to promote more conscious choices regarding prevention, screening, early detection, and access to healthcare, thereby contributing to the reduction of cancer inequalities across Europe.
Although the official European date is October 14th, Portugal is advancing its celebration to leverage the European Researchers' Night event, a moment for bringing science and society closer, to conduct interactive activities and awareness campaigns.
This initiative is part of the project CURTAIN – Cancer inequalities through literacy in Europe, funded by the EU4Health program. The project involves 15 partners from nine European countries and aims to reduce cancer disparities by strengthening health literacy. The European Cancer Literacy Day is also supported by projects from the EU4Health and Horizon Europe programs, aligning with the objectives of the European Cancer Plan.
The event will feature cancer literacy activities, such as interactive games and quizzes, aimed at various audiences. The commemorations will be held in Porto, Braga, Lisbon, Coimbra, and Aveiro.
