8.I. Scientific session: Towards effective cancer prevention for sustainable health: European Code Against Cancer update

Abstract For several decades, the European Code Against Cancer (ECAC) has played a crucial role in offering evidence-based recommendations aimed at reducing cancer risk in the European Union (EU). The upcoming 5th edition (ECAC5), coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), represents a major advancement by integrating both individual-level and policy-oriented recommendations to help prevent cancer and provide co-benefits for other non-communicable diseases with similar risk factors and opportunities for health promotion. The aim of this workshop is: to introduce ECAC5 as the latest edition of the ECAC; to present the rationale and the multi-disciplinary development procedure followed to update the ECAC, with a special attention on health literacy, equity, co-morbidities, and polices; and to discuss the future implementation of ECAC5, stakeholder engagement, and strategic integration with policy and practice. It will also explore how the forthcoming EU Mobile App for Cancer Prevention integrates with the ECAC5 to promote cancer prevention recommendations, aligning with the objectives of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan. ECAC5 introduces several innovations to the initiative of the ECAC, including policy-level recommendations that support and reinforce educational guidance for individuals, and greater attention to health literacy and equity and co-benefits for the prevention of other major chronic conditions. This workshop will offer a comprehensive overview of how these innovations have been put in place. Participants will gain insights into the collaborative methodological process, which has involved a variety of multidisciplinary stakeholders across Europe, and the strategic alignment with initiatives under Europe's Beating Cancer Plan. Presentations will demonstrate how evidence has been reviewed and applied to create the recommendations, and how their future dissemination has been considered. Perspectives from civil society, international organisations, and academia are covered. The objectives of this workshop are: to present ECAC5 in full, describe its methodological framework and innovations; to discuss the integration of ECAC5 with policy and practice across the EU; and to explore novel strategies for dissemination and stakeholder engagement across diverse target groups. Key messages • ECAC5 is based on a rigorous, but very integrative methodology to ensure best evidence, to fight misinformation on cancer prevention, as well as contextual fit. • ECAC5 integrates individual and policy-level guidance to boost cancer prevention across the EU.