European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer
European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is a pan-European, non-profit clinical cancer research organization established in 1962. It operates as an international association under Belgian law and is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
Mission and Objectives[edit]
The primary mission of EORTC is to improve the survival and quality of life of cancer patients through innovative and high-quality clinical trials and translational research. The organization develops and coordinates large-scale, multidisciplinary studies that evaluate new cancer treatments and therapeutic strategies, including:
- Novel anticancer drugs
- Combinations of currently approved therapies
- Advanced radiotherapy and surgical oncology techniques
- Personalized medicine approaches
Research Network and Infrastructure[edit]
EORTC operates a vast network of clinical cancer researchers and institutions across Europe and beyond. This includes:
- Over 930 institutions in more than 30 countries
- Thousands of collaborating investigators and research professionals
- 220 full-time staff based at the headquarters in Brussels
The EORTC is uniquely positioned to conduct large, complex clinical trials across multiple countries, and it has particular expertise in trials involving:
- Rare cancers
- Geriatric oncology (older cancer patients)
- Molecularly defined patient populations
Areas of Research[edit]
The EORTC covers a wide range of cancer types and research domains, including but not limited to:
- Breast, lung, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary cancers
- Hematological malignancies
- Brain tumors
- Soft tissue and bone sarcomas
- Cancer survivorship and quality of life studies
It collaborates closely with pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, cooperative groups, and regulatory bodies such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Clinical Trial Excellence[edit]
EORTC trials are known for their scientific rigor, patient-centered design, and contribution to evidence-based oncology. The organization has played a key role in defining international standards of care in cancer therapy through landmark clinical trials that have influenced treatment guidelines and regulatory approvals.
