Work in Parliament Status of research on cancer comorbidities in EU research policies

Question for written answer  E-003457/2022
to the Commission
Rule 138
Maria da Graça Carvalho (PPE), José Manuel Fernandes (PPE), Cláudia Monteiro de Aguiar (PPE)

Cancer-associated thrombosis is the number one cause of death during chemotherapy and the second leading cause of all cancer deaths, after disease progression. Blood clots are also an important early warning sign for cancer. In many patients, cancer is detected following a blood clot. Research also shows that being diagnosed with a blood clot formation indicates a higher risk of cancer.

As a prevalent and acute comorbidity, cancer-associated thrombosis has a significant effect on cancer mortality, affecting all cancer types and stages of the disease, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment and quality of life. The most recent EU Cancer Mission implementation report and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan both recognise the importance of cancer-related comorbidities. However, more research on the relationship between blood clotting, cancer formation and cancer growth is needed to decrease mortality and life-threatening complications.

• 1.How does the Commission intend to tackle research on prevalent and acute comorbidities, such as cancer-associated thrombosis, under the EU Cancer Mission?
• 2.Additionally, how does it plan to address prevalent and acute comorbidities, such as cancer-associated thrombosis, as part of the wider Horizon Europe programme?