Airc's 60-Year Impact: Driving Italian Oncological Research
Airc, a leading force in Italian oncological research, has played a pivotal role in raising social awareness of cancer and transforming prevention and cure research into a collective goal. The Cergas report, 'To the Sources of Research', reveals that the Ministry of Health and the European Union have significantly contributed to this effort, allocating 635 million euros and 505 million euros respectively. However, disparities persist in resource distribution across regions, sectors, and types of tumours studied.
Airc, marking its 60th anniversary, has been instrumental in driving research forward. Between 2016 and 2023, it has invested over 973 million euros, accounting for nearly 40% of the 1.17 billion euros from the non-profit sector. The Cergas report suggests establishing a National Observatory for Oncological Research to enhance transparency and coordination among funding bodies. This initiative aims to address the imbalances in resource distribution and ensure a more balanced approach to cancer research in Italy.
Various institutions, including the Italian government, private foundations, and international organisations, have supported cancer research since 2016. The Italian government and public institutions, such as the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education, Universities, and Research, have funded research through various programmes and calls. The Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco (AIFA) also supports oncology research. Private foundations like the Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro (AIRC) and companies like Roche, Pfizer, and Novartis have significantly contributed to research, often through partnerships with universities and clinical institutions. International organisations like the European Union and the World Health Organization have also played a role, often through collaborative projects with Italian entities.
The establishment of a National Observatory for Oncological Research is proposed to improve transparency and coordination in cancer research funding. Airc, celebrating its 60th anniversary, has been a significant contributor, investing over 973 million euros since 2016. The Italian government and international organisations have also played substantial roles in funding cancer research, with the Ministry of Health and the European Union allocating 635 million euros and 505 million euros respectively. Addressing the persisting imbalances in resource distribution will be crucial for a more comprehensive approach to cancer research in Italy.
