An inaugural study looking at European cancer trends has indicated that prevention and management of the disease is moving forward, with survival rates of most cancers generally improving.

The research, published by the European Cancer Organisation, found that overall the number of cancer incidence was down in the more prosperous countries in northern and western Europe, with the exception of obesity-related cancers such as colorectal and postmenopausal breast cancer and smoking-related cancers in women.

The report coincides with the European Commission's preliminary work to draw up a new EU Cancer Action Plan.

"Marked effects of organised or opportunistic screening became visible for breast, prostate and melanoma in the wealthier countries," the study's authors wrote.

Incidences of breast, prostate, testicular cancer and melanomas were found to be most prevalent in northern and western Europe, while cancers of the lung, cervix and stomach were more common in the south and central parts of Europe.

The researchers concluded: "Cancer prevention and management in Europe is moving in the right direction. Survival increased and mortality decreased through the combination of earlier detection, better access to care and improved treatment.

"Still, cancer prevention efforts have much to attain, especially in the domain of female smoking and the emerging obesity epidemic."

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