Mission Early

Launched in 2024, Mission Early is a multi-stakeholder initiative to increase early detection, timely diagnosis and early-stage treatment of cancer with a focus on high-incidence cancers, including breast, lung, and prostate.

Mission Early develops policy evidence, disseminates best practices and provides recommendations for policy action to bring the highest possible standard of early cancer care to everyone.  

The initiative aligns and supports key targets in the World Cancer Declaration 2025–2035: 60% of cancers are diagnosed at an early stage and 80% of cancer-care facilities have access to essential medicines and technologies by 2035. 

The initiative is currently governed by a Steering Group (SG), comprised of founding members (UICC, All.Can, Cancer Patients Europe and MSD) and an expert advisor.

Research and advocacy 

To date, Mission Early has commissioned three research studies focusing on:  

• Identifying OECD countries with the most effective policies for early cancer care and best practices (Lavendar Zones) [1]; 
• Identifying the ‘ideal’ policy framework for early cancer care​ (Rand Europe) [2]; and,  
• demonstrating the economic value of early cancer detection and treatment (Triangulate Europe - currently being finalised).  

In parallel, Mission Early partners have supported advocacy activities aimed at influencing policy change related to early detection, treatment and care among national and regional decision makers in Europe (EU, Spain and Romania) and Latin America (Mexico). 

In November 2025, Mission Early launched a Call to Action for Better Early Cancer Care, targeted at global cancer policymakers​. There are 15 signatories to date, including national and global health organisations, patient advocacy groups and industry partners.