Challenge

As a result of cancer’s complexity, caused by its highly heterogeneous nature, effective research and clinical care remains complicated, and the data collection remains largely fragmented across institutions and national borders. This fragmentation presents a major obstacle: data is often stored in incompatible formats and not harmonized according to the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable). Researchers may struggle to access or interpret datasets from other countries, reducing opportunities for large-scale analysis, replication of findings, or cross-border collaboration. Moreover, privacy concerns, lack of common standards, and infrastructure gaps further complicate data sharing and integration efforts. These limitations severely hinder the EU’s capacity to develop innovative and personalized approaches to cancer prevention, diagnostics, and treatment. Without the ability to accumulate and analyse data at scale, it is difficult to uncover subtle patterns, validate emerging therapies, or identify vulnerable populations.

Solutions

EOSC4Cancer created a federated infrastructure for cancer data, encompassing domains like genomics, imaging, medical, clinical, environmental, and socio-economic. By leveraging and enhancing existing federated and interoperable systems, the project enabled secure cross-border sharing and processing of FAIR cancer data. Focusing on five cases representing the cancer patient journey – from prevention and diagnosis to treatment – EOSC4Cancer built workflows and data trajectories accordingly. These systems operated transparently for end-users and were supported by community-driven analysis environments and standard interfaces.

Results

EOSC4Cancer brought a powerful boost to cancer research across Europe by unlocking access to high-quality, well-organized datasets and cutting-edge analytical tools. With a strong focus on reproducibility and resilience, the project made it easier for scientists to collaborate, compare findings, and build on each other’s work, ultimately speeding up breakthroughs in personalized cancer care. But its impact went far beyond the lab. By connecting the dots between science, society, and healthcare systems, EOSC4Cancer helped lay the groundwork for lasting change. It not only accelerated the path toward more tailored and effective cancer treatments but also supported the broader goals of the European Cancer Mission, driving innovation, improving patient outcomes, and strengthening healthcare resilience across the continent. The project actively engaged with international initiatives and listened to the voices of patients, survivors, and advocacy groups, ensuring that its technical advancements were firmly rooted in real-world needs and lived experiences.